OneTrust Certified Privacy Professional Practice Exam

A breach, in the context of data protection laws, refers specifically to an event where there is unauthorized access to, or disclosure of, personal data. This includes situations where personal information is accessed by individuals who do not have the legal right to view or handle that data, or when data is shared in a manner that violates data protection regulations. Such incidents can pose significant risks to individuals’ privacy and security, leading to potential harm from identity theft or data misuse.

The focus on unauthorized access is crucial because it highlights the importance of maintaining data confidentiality and ensuring that only authorized personnel can access sensitive information. Regulations like the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and various others emphasize the necessity of reporting such breaches to relevant authorities and affected individuals promptly to mitigate any potential harm.

In contrast, other options pertain to situations that do not constitute a breach. For example, a successful transfer of data to a third party may be legitimate if it adheres to privacy laws and agreements, and a legitimate use of data by the organization indicates compliance rather than a breach. Meanwhile, routine checks focusing on data integrity are part of good data governance practices and do not imply any unauthorized access or disclosure.