Data theft, or information theft, refers to the unauthorised storage or transfer of personal, private, or financial data. Passwords, software codes or algorithms, and company-specific procedures or technologies could all be included in this data. Data theft is widely seen as a serious security or privacy breach, with potentially grave consequences for both individuals and businesses. There are many ways data theft can occur, but it is ultimately your responsibility to prevent it.
Data Theft
The act of stealing digital information from computers, servers, or other electronic devices to enable unauthorised individuals to access or alter private data is known as data theft. Examples of stolen data include bank account details, online passwords, passport and driving licence numbers, National Insurance numbers, medical records, online subscriptions, and legal documents. Therefore, to be safe, every motorcycle accident attorney in Dayton and law firms should protect their data. When unauthorised persons gain access to personal or financial information, they can delete or modify it, or block access to it – all without the owner’s consent.
Data theft often occurs when individuals seek to sell stolen information or use it to commit identity theft. A data thief can use a victim’s identity for various purposes, such as creating credit cards in their name or accessing secure accounts, if they manage to gather enough information. Unfortunately, data theft is an increasing concern not only for individuals but also for businesses. Previously, it was predominantly a problem for organisations and companies.
How to Prevent Data Theft
Use Strong Passwords: Weak passwords are easily cracked by hackers. A strong password should be at least 12 characters long and include a mix of alphanumeric characters and special symbols—uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. The shorter and simpler your password, the easier it is for cybercriminals to break into your account. Avoid using consecutive numbers (e.g., “1234”) or personal details that can be easily guessed, such as your date of birth or your pet’s name. Always opt for a strong password to protect yourself from cyber threats.
Use 2FA: In addition to requiring the entry of a password and email, two-factor authentication (2FA) is a popular type of multi-factor authentication (MFA) that increases security. 2FA requires two independent methods to confirm your identity. The first factor is something you know, such as your password. The second is something you have, like a text message sent to your phone, or a biometric factor such as your fingerprint, face, or retina. If MFA is available on any of your accounts, make sure to enable it for added protection.
Avoid Writing Down Your Passwords: Writing down passwords on paper, in an Excel spreadsheet, or in the notes app on your phone makes them more vulnerable to discovery. If you have multiple passwords and find it difficult to remember them all, consider using a password manager for secure storage. Complex passwords for all of your accounts can be safely generated and stored with password managers. By doing this, you lower the possibility of choosing passwords that are simple to figure out or weak on several different platforms, significantly protecting your data from online attacks.
