A data leak occurs when sensitive or confidential information is unintentionally exposed to unauthorized individuals. This can happen through various means, such as poor security practices, software vulnerabilities, or human error. Data leaks can involve personal data, financial records, or proprietary business information, leading to potential misuse or identity theft. Organizations often face significant consequences from data leaks, including financial losses, legal penalties, and damage to their reputation. To mitigate these risks, companies implement security measures like encryption, access controls, and regular audits. Awareness and training for employees are also crucial in preventing accidental leaks and protecting sensitive data.