Glossary definition: Data Exfiltration

Data Exfiltration: Protect Your Data

Data exfiltration is the unauthorized transfer of data from a secure system or network to an external location or device. It is a malicious activity typically performed by cybercriminals to steal sensitive information, such as financial data, intellectual property, or personally identifiable information (PII). Data exfiltration can occur through a variety of methods, including malware, phishing, and malicious insiders. Malware is malicious software designed to infiltrate a system and steal data, while phishing involves sending fraudulent emails in an attempt to gain access to the target system or network. Malicious insiders are individuals with authorized access to the system or network who use their access to steal data. Data exfiltration can also be caused by misconfigured systems or networks, which allow malicious actors to gain access to the data without authorization. Regardless of the method used, data exfiltration can have serious consequences for organizations, including financial losses, reputational damage, and compliance violations.