Data theft is the illegal act of stealing sensitive or confidential information from an individual, organization, or system, typically for malicious purposes. This stolen data can include personal information, financial records, intellectual property, or customer data, and is often used for identity theft, fraud, or competitive advantage. Data theft can occur through hacking, phishing, insider threats, or physical theft of devices like laptops or storage drives.
Hackers may infiltrate computer systems, networks, or databases to steal valuable data such as login credentials, credit card information, or trade secrets. Insiders, such as employees, may also engage in data theft by copying sensitive files or sharing proprietary information with competitors or unauthorized parties.
Data theft can lead to significant financial losses, reputational damage, and legal consequences for businesses and individuals. It can also result in identity theft, fraud, or exposure of sensitive business information. To prevent data theft, organizations must invest in strong cybersecurity measures, regularly update security protocols, and train employees to recognize potential threats.