Security breaches can be catastrophic, with consequences ranging from financial losses to reputational damage. Understanding the fundamentals of a security breach is crucial for prevention. A breach occurs when an unauthorised individual gains access to sensitive data, possibly leading to data theft or modification. The process involves three steps: initial access, lateral movement, and exfiltration. In the initial access stage, the attacker infiltrates the network, typically through phishing or malware.
During lateral movement, the attacker manoeuvres within the network, seeking valuable data. This stage is often undetected due to the lack of monitoring in many organisations. The final step, exfiltration, involves the attacker extracting the data, often encrypting it to avoid detection.
Preventing security breaches requires a multi-faceted approach. It’s vital to educate employees about phishing and ensure they use strong, unique passwords. Employing two-factor authentication and limiting access to sensitive data can also be beneficial. Regularly updating and patching software, as well as monitoring network activity, can help detect unusual behaviour and stop an attack in its tracks. Remember, a robust defence is the best offence when it comes to cybersecurity.
Go to source article: https://medium.com/starting-up-security/security-breach-101-b0f7897c027c#.gka0e8htp