What is a 'security breach'?

A security breach is defined as an unauthorized access to private or sensitive information. This definition encompasses various scenarios where protected data, including personal, financial, or proprietary information, is accessed or disclosed without permission. Security breaches can occur through various means, such as hacking, phishing attacks, or insider threats.

In the context of security protocols and practices, understanding what constitutes a security breach is crucial for organizations as it helps them develop adequate preventive measures and response strategies. Such breaches not only compromise the confidentiality and integrity of the information but can also lead to significant legal, financial, and reputational consequences for the affected entities.

The other choices relate to different aspects of security but do not accurately define what a security breach entails. For example, loss of communication and unauthorized surveillance, while they may relate to security concerns, do not inherently involve the unauthorized access to or exposure of sensitive data. Failure to follow security protocols is a condition that might lead to security breaches but is not a definition itself.