A data security breach entails unauthorized access to sensitive information held by organizations. Such breaches can lead to the theft of personal data, financial information, or proprietary data. Consequences include financial losses, damage to reputation, legal ramifications, and loss of customer trust. Organizations must implement robust security measures to prevent breaches, including encryption, access controls, and regular security audits. Additionally, proper incident response planning can mitigate damage in the event of a breach, ensuring a more efficient recovery.