Which of the following is a common consequence of a data breach?

A common consequence of a data breach is the loss of sensitive information. When a data breach occurs, unauthorized individuals gain access to confidential data, which can include personal identifiable information, financial records, or proprietary corporate data. This loss can have serious implications for individuals and organizations, such as identity theft, financial fraud, and reputational damage.

The consequences of losing sensitive information extend beyond immediate threats; organizations often face regulatory penalties, legal fees, and the costs associated with restoring security measures. Additionally, affected individuals may experience long-term impacts, such as credit issues or personal security risks.

In contrast, increased website traffic does not inherently result from a data breach, and often, organizations experience a decline in traffic due to lost customer trust. Similarly, while organizations may try to rebuild trust after a breach, it typically diminishes rather than enhances. Higher employee morale is unlikely to be a direct consequence; instead, employees may feel more anxiety or insecurity about their workplace and personal data following a breach.