Department of Defense (DoD) Information Security Practice Exam – Prep & Study Guide

An "information security breach" typically results in unauthorized access or disclosure of sensitive information. This occurs when an individual or group gains access to data that they are not permitted to have, which may include personal, financial, or classified information. Such breaches can happen through various means, such as hacking, phishing, or insider threats, and can involve both intentional malicious activities and unintentional errors.

This unauthorized access can lead to a myriad of negative consequences, including identity theft, financial loss, and damage to an organization's reputation. Additionally, it often prompts organizations to assess and report the breach, which can involve notifying affected individuals and regulatory bodies, thereby highlighting the sensitivity and seriousness of protecting information assets.

While it is true that information security breaches might eventually lead to improved cybersecurity measures or increased public awareness, these outcomes are typically a response to the breach rather than a direct result of it. Higher operational efficiency is not a consequence of a breach and is generally contrary to the disruptions that such incidents cause. Therefore, the key outcome of an information security breach is the unauthorized access or disclosure of sensitive information.