Glossary of Terms

Causes of data loss

Keyword Definition
Accidental Deletion The unintentional removal of important data from ICT systems that results in data loss.
Data Breaches Unauthorized disclosure of sensitive information, leading to data loss and potential harm to individuals or organizations.
Earthquake Seismic activity that can cause physical damage to data storage infrastructure leading to data loss.
Fire Destructive blaze that can engulf data centers and destroy data stored within them.
Flood Overflowing of water which can damage hardware and destroy data storage devices.
Hardware Failure The malfunction or damage of physical components in ICT systems that can lead to data loss.
Human Error Mistakes or negligence by individuals operating or managing ICT systems that may result in data loss.
Hurricane Storm with strong winds and heavy rainfall that can damage data centers and cause data loss.
Improper Data Handling Careless or negligent actions that lead to data loss, such as improper storage or transfer practices.
Inadequate Backup Insufficient or irregular data backup procedures in ICT systems, increasing the risk of data loss.
Lack Of Backup The absence of redundant copies of data, increasing the risk of permanent data loss in the event of a mishap.
Lightning Electrical discharge during thunderstorms that can cause power surges leading to data loss.
Malware Attacks Malicious activities targeting ICT systems to compromise data integrity and confidentiality.
Malware Infections Malicious software programs that can infiltrate ICT systems and cause data loss.
Misconfiguration Errors in system setup or configuration that can lead to data loss, such as incorrect permissions or settings.
Natural Disasters Issues such as floods, fires, earthquakes, and hurricanes that can cause physical destruction to ICT systems, leading to data loss.
Network Failures Disruptions or malfunctions in the communication infrastructure of ICT systems that can cause data loss.
Phishing Attacks Fraudulent attempts to obtain sensitive information, which can result in data loss if successful.
Power Outage Loss of electricity supply which can lead to data corruption or loss.
Power Outages Disruptions to power supply such as immediate loss of power
Software Corruption Where the software in ICT systems gets altered or damaged, causing potential data loss.
Tornado Violently rotating column of air that can destroy buildings housing data centers resulting in data loss.
Tsunami Series of large waves caused by underwater earthquakes that can flood data centers leading to data loss.
Unauthorized Access When individuals or entities gain entry to a system without permission, potentially resulting in data loss or theft.
Wildfire Uncontrolled fire that can engulf data centers and destroy data stored within them.