Unauthorized Data Collection

Definition ∞ Unauthorized data collection refers to the illicit gathering of personal, financial, or operational data without the explicit consent of the data owner or without legitimate authorization. This activity often involves exploiting software vulnerabilities, deploying spyware, or breaching privacy policies to harvest information. The collected data can be used for various malicious purposes, including identity theft, targeted attacks, or selling on dark web marketplaces. It constitutes a serious breach of privacy and security.
Context ∞ In the digital asset ecosystem, unauthorized data collection poses a significant risk to user privacy and security, as sensitive information can be leveraged for phishing, social engineering, or direct asset theft. News reports frequently expose instances of data breaches or privacy violations by platforms or malicious actors. Adherence to data protection regulations and robust cybersecurity practices are essential to prevent such illicit activities. Users are advised to be cautious about sharing personal information online.