What Is a Data Leak and How Does It Affect You?

Modified on Mon, 21 Jul, 2025 at 7:21 AM

A data leak happens when sensitive information is unintentionally exposed — often due to poor security or human error — without a full-scale cyberattack. This can include:

  • Email addresses

  • Phone numbers

  • Passwords

  • Location data

  • Social security or national ID numbers

Even if the leak seems minor, cybercriminals can piece together this information for phishing, identity theft, or scams.

What you should do:

  • Use Prosec Security’s ID Scan Threat Report to scan for any exposed information.

  • Change passwords frequently and avoid reusing them.

  • Use two-factor authentication where possible.

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