Data Leak, Data Breach, Data Hack: What Is the Difference?
News reports mix up leaks, breaches and hacks. The distinctions matter for how you respond.
Data leak
Information exposed accidentally, for example a misconfigured database left open.
Data breach
Unauthorised access to protected data, by outsiders or insiders.
Hack
The act of gaining access by exploiting a weakness. A hack can cause a breach.
Why it matters
Regardless of cause, your response is the same: change passwords, enable 2FA and watch for fraud.
Key takeaway: Whatever it is called, the steps for you are the same.
