What is a security breach?

A security breach is defined as an incident where unauthorized access to data or systems occurs. This definition underlines a critical aspect of cybersecurity—protecting sensitive data and ensuring the integrity of systems from external or internal threats. When an unauthorized entity gains access, it can lead to data theft, data manipulation, or other malicious purposes, thereby compromising the organization's security posture.

In contrast, while a policy violation by employees can indeed affect security, it does not encompass the broader range of unauthorized access scenarios that could occur, such as external attacks or hacking incidents. Similarly, an improvement in security measures or scheduled maintenance of security systems are proactive and preventive actions, rather than incidents involving unauthorized access. Understanding the implications of a security breach helps organizations take necessary precautions and implement robust security frameworks to protect against such risks.