Most Common Causes of Data Breaches: Understanding and Preventing Security Vulnerabilities

2. Weak or Inadequate Security Controls

Weak security controls often lead to data breaches. Organizations that neglect to update their security infrastructure or fail to implement robust cybersecurity protocols are particularly vulnerable to attacks. Common vulnerabilities include:

Unpatched Software

Lack of Encryption

Data that isn’t properly encrypted can be intercepted by cybercriminals during transmission or storage. Encryption is essential for protecting sensitive data, whether it’s payment information, personal details, or intellectual property.

Poor Access Management

Without proper user access controls, unauthorized individuals can gain access to critical systems or data. Every organization should adopt a principle of least privilege, where employees only have access to the information necessary for their roles.

The Marriott breach is a prime example of inadequate security controls. According to investigations, the hotel chain failed to implement basic security practices such as network monitoring and strong password controls, which contributed to unauthorized access by malicious actors.

3. Malware and Cyber Attacks

Sophisticated malware and cyberattacks are major culprits behind many high-profile data breaches. Cybercriminals use various forms of malicious software to infiltrate networks and extract sensitive data. Some common types of attacks include:

Ransomware

In ransomware attacks, cybercriminals encrypt an organization’s data and demand a ransom in exchange for unlocking it. These attacks can cripple operations and lead to data exposure if not handled properly.

SQL Injection

In an SQL injection attack, hackers exploit vulnerabilities in an organization’s database by inserting malicious code into SQL queries. This allows them to gain unauthorized access to the data stored within the database.

Advanced Persistent Threats (APTs)

APTs are long-term cyberattacks in which hackers infiltrate a system and remain undetected for extended periods. They gradually gather sensitive data, making it difficult to detect and prevent the breach before significant damage is done.

Cyberattacks on businesses like Marriott often target vulnerable systems that have not been properly secured. The attackers in Marriott’s case took advantage of weak defenses, leading to a widespread breach that exposed everything from passport information to payment card numbers.

4. Third-Party Vendor Vulnerabilities

Organizations frequently rely on third-party vendors for various services, but these partnerships can introduce additional risks if the vendors don’t have adequate security measures in place. A data breach that occurs through a third-party provider can still have devastating consequences for the primary organization. Some common issues include:

Lack of Vendor Oversight

When businesses fail to assess and monitor the security practices of their vendors, they may unknowingly expose themselves to risk.

Supply Chain Attacks

Hackers can target a company’s third-party vendors or service providers to gain access to sensitive data. These attacks are often difficult to detect because they exploit the trust between organizations and their partners.

Data Sharing Practices

If sensitive data is shared with third-party vendors without proper encryption or security protocols, it can be intercepted and exposed in the event of a breach.

The Marriott breach was partly caused by vulnerabilities within its subsidiary, Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide. After acquiring Starwood, Marriott inherited its existing security weaknesses, which contributed to the breach that exposed millions of customer records.