What is a data leak and how can you protect yourself? (2024)

Data leaks can stem from lost devices, outdated software with security vulnerabilities, or general human error. Regardless of how it happens, leaked data can leave you vulnerable to identity theft and fraud. Here, we’ll explain how data leaks happen and how you can help limit your risk.

What’s the difference between a data leak and a data breach?

A data leak is the accidental exposure of sensitive information, while a data breach happens when someone intentionally accesses private data without authorization. Often, these two go hand in hand, with data breaches stemming from data leaks.

For example, if a streaming service you use accidentally exposes user login credentials, including usernames and passwords, that’s an example of a data leak. Then, if someone uses that information to try to guess your login credentials for other sites and services, that would be a data breach.

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How do data leaks happen?

Data leaks happen when mistakes or weak security allow sensitive information to fall into the wrong hands. Some of the most common causes include:

• Lost devices without password protection
• Weak privacy and security settings
• Accidentally sharing login information
• Insider threats

What types of data are at risk in personal data leaks?

Personal data leaks can expose any of the personal information held by third parties. This includes names, addresses, Social Security numbers, financial information, medical records, and more. Criminals and identity thieves can then exploit this data for fraud or blackmail or by selling it on the dark web.

Here’s a closer look at the types of leaked data cybercriminals are most likely to take advantage of and why:

• Health information: A data leak can expose medical conditions, medications, and insurance details, allowing criminals to commit medical identity theft or fraud.
• Login credentials: Leaked emails and passwords become a key to other accounts, allowing criminals to steal money, services, or personal information through credential stuffing or other targeted attacks.
• Financial details: Criminals can use leaked account numbers, routing numbers, and Social Security numbers to steal your money or open new accounts in your name.
• Messaging history: Leaked messaging data can reveal communication patterns, private information, and personal connections, which criminals can use for targeted scams, blackmail, or social engineering attacks.
• Personally Identifiable Information (PII): A data leak exposes PII, making you vulnerable to criminals who can use that information to try to commit identity theft or financial fraud.

How to prevent data leaks

It’s impossible to prevent data leaks, but you can help protect yourself by leveling up your online security and practicing good digital hygiene. In practice, that might look like:

• Creating strong and unique passwords
• Limiting how much personal information you share online
• Setting up two-factor authentication (2FA)
• Updating your software and devices
• Avoiding clicking on suspicious links
• Downloading apps and software only from reliable sites and app stores

What to do if your data gets leaked

If your data leaks, you need to act quickly and take the necessary precautions to help secure and monitor your accounts. That could include freezing and monitoring your credit, updating your account passwords, revisiting your security settings, enabling two-factor authentication, and reporting the leak to the FTC and the police.

The biggest data leaks in history

While data leaks can stem from user error, they can also happen due to individual or corporate missteps. Here are three examples of some of the biggest data leaks over the past decade.

1. First American Financial Corporation: In 2019, this financial services company exposed hundreds of millions of sensitive mortgage documents online due to a consumer data application vulnerability. This may have been preventable with more regular security audits, stronger access controls, and additional security measures like multi-factor authentication.
2. Roblox data leak: In 2021, a third-party security issue caused a Roblox data leak that exposed thousands of Roblox developers’ sensitive information like birth dates, home addresses, phone numbers, and email addresses. The leak may have exposed those impacted to a variety of scams, malicious correspondence, and other forms of harassment.
3. Tesla data leak: In May 2023, two former Tesla employees leaked sensitive information on over 75,000 people, including customer data and internal documents, prompting an investigation but no reported misuse; stronger access controls may have prevented the leak.

Protection against account takeovers and ID theft

Data leaks can have severe consequences. Thankfully, you can help protect yourself from account takeovers, fraud, and identity theft by practicing good online security habits and using reliable online security.

Norton 360 with LifeLock Select is built on top of a powerful anti-malware threat detection engine. Plus, it has a built-in password manager, VPN, and powerful identity theft protection features to keep your personal information safer and give you greater peace of mind.

FAQs about data leaks

Still have questions about data leaks? Here’s what you need to know.

What can happen if my data is leaked?

With your leaked data, criminals can steal your identity or trick you into giving them valuable information. Here are a few examples of the consequences of a data leak:

• Financial fraud: A data leak can compromise your bank accounts, investment accounts, credit history, and more.
• Blackmail: With sensitive Information like your medical records or messaging history, scammers can threaten or blackmail you.
• Social engineering: Armed with your personal information, fraudsters can manipulate you into clicking dangerous links or exposing even more sensitive information.

Did Apple have a data leak?

Apple itself hasn't had a major data leak (as of this writing). And it’s worth noting that Apple products include a password security feature that checks your passwords against known leaked databases from other companies. So, you might receive a notification from Apple if a password you use elsewhere has been identified in a leak.

Can I sue a company for leaking my data?

You may be able to sue a company for a data leak, but it depends on the incident. You'd have to prove the company was negligent in protecting your data and that you suffered harm, like identity theft or financial loss. Data breach laws vary by location, so consult a local attorney to learn more about your legal options.

Luis Corrons is a Security Evangelist for Gen (Avast, AVG, Avira, Norton) & leads boards at AMTSO & MUTE. He is a prominent speaker at industry events.

Editorial note:Our articles provide educational information for you. Our offerings may not cover or protect against every type of crime, fraud, or threat we write about. Our goal is to increase awareness about Cyber Safety. Please review complete Terms during enrollment or setup. Remember that no one can prevent all identity theft or cybercrime, and that LifeLock does not monitor all transactions at all businesses. The Norton and LifeLock brands are part of Gen Digital Inc.