Confidentiality violations occur when sensitive information is disclosed without proper authorization. This can happen in various settings, such as healthcare, where patient records are shared without consent, or in business, where trade secrets are leaked. Such breaches can lead to legal consequences and loss of trust. These violations can result from human error, inadequate security measures, or intentional misconduct. Organizations often implement policies and training to protect confidential information, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding data related to individuals, clients, or proprietary information. Maintaining confidentiality is crucial for ethical practices and compliance with laws like HIPAA or GDPR.