Data Theft

What is Data Theft?

Data Theft involves deliberately stealing information from an organization (not an accidental loss of data). Data theft can occur both from within (as in an employee) or without (as in a hacker). Hackers typically steal data using malware such as keyloggers or spearphishing emails. Data theft can also be accomplished through stolen hardware, like computers and flash drives.

How to Recognize This Threat: It often takes organizations quite awhile to detect a data breach (an average of more than 6 months according to a Ponemon Institute study). To recognize data theft, organizations should monitor network and employee activity, and have data theft detection tools in place.

How to Prevent This Threat: Prevent data theft with robust network security measures. There’s no better starting point than a next-generation firewall. Find the option that’s right for your network size.