DATA SECURITY & SECURITY BREACHES: IMPACT ANALYSIS AND PREVENTION MEASURES

Abstract

The requirement for safe computer systems becomes more obvious as more tasks are automated and as more computers are used to hold sensitive data. As more systems and applications are being deployed and accessible across unsecured networks like the Internet, this requirement is becoming more and more obvious. Governments, businesses, financial institutions, and millions of daily users now depend heavily on the Internet. Computer networks provide assistance for a wide range of operations whose absence would almost bring these enterprises to their knees. As a result, cybersecurity problems have evolved into national security problems. Internet security is a challenging task. Cybersecurity cannot be accomplished via accidental, seat-of- the-pants tactics; it can only be achieved through deliberate development. In this paper we discuss the growing utility of data in the modern world, threats to personal and professional data, data security and its importance. We also give an overview into some of the biggest security breaches in the recent times as well as analyse some of their impacts and the aftermath of data breaches and what practices can be put into place to enhance data security and prevent security breaches. Key Words: data, breach, security, risk, cybersecurity