When you use an online service, whether it’s to connect with friends or make a transaction, you are entrusting the company responsible for the website with your information. Unfortunately, they may not take their obligation to protect your data as seriously as necessary. If this is the case, you may find that your information is compromised in a data breach. When you discover this, you may begin to panic. However, an Arroyo Grande consumer lawyer can help you hold the negligent party responsible if your identity or credit is impacted. Keep reading to learn more about these incidents.
How Does a Data Breach Happen?
Data breaches are incidents when an unauthorized user gains access to sensitive information. In some cases, this is as simple as an employee looking at an email they do not have clearance to view, while it can be much more severe.
Sometimes, a disgruntled employee may steal data to seek revenge upon their employer, while in other situations, a group of hackers is to blame. In these cases, the information is often used or sold to others on a black market. For example, a hacker may drain your bank account while selling your social security number to someone else to use to commit identity theft.
Information like your name, address, birthday, phone number, social security number, and login details can be taken during these breaches.
Who Can Face Liability for These Instances?
If your information was stolen during a data breach, it may seem impossible to assign blame. Unfortunately, the perpetrators of these crimes are rarely caught, leaving you wondering who can be held responsible.
In some instances, the person or group responsible will be caught and criminally charged for their actions. However, they are not the only entity that can face liability. In many instances, the company at the center of the breach can be held civilly liable for damages to consumers.
Some hackers are sophisticated and technologically advanced, bypassing strong server protections or using malicious malware to get into the system. However, in most instances, the thieves can infiltrate the website through a weak or inadequate security system. Because the website has a responsibility to consumers to protect their data, they can face liability if their security is not up to standard, leading to a breach.
Consumers who have their information stolen in an identity breach may find they are the victims of identity theft. This can subsequently impact their credit score and job opportunities.
At Loker Law, we believe you have a right to privacy. As such, we will do everything possible to help hold the negligent parties responsible for their actions. Contact us today to learn how we can help you through this challenging time.
