Data loss is an error condition in information systems in which information is destroyed by failures (like failed spindle motors or head crashes on hard drives) or neglect (like mishandling, careless handling or storage under unsuitable conditions) in storage, transmission, or processing. Information systems implement backup and disaster recovery equipment and processes to prevent data loss or restore lost data. Data loss can also occur if the physical medium containing the data is lost or stolen. Data loss is distinguished from data unavailability, which may arise from a network outage. Although the two have substantially similar consequences for users, data unavailability is temporary, while data loss may be permanent. Data loss is also distinct from data breach, an incident where data falls into the wrong hands, although the term data loss has been used in those incidents. Types Procedural Intentional action Intentional deletion of a file or program Unintentional action Accidental deletion of a file or program Misplacement of physical storage media Administration errors Inability to read unknown file format Failure Power failure, resulting in data in volatile memory not being saved to permanent memory. Hardware failure, such as a head crash in a hard disk. A software crash or freeze, resulting in data not being saved. Software bugs or poor usability, such as not confirming a file delete command. Business failure (vendor bankruptcy), where data is stored with a software vendor using Software-as-a-service and SaaS data escrow has not been provisioned. Data corruption, such as file system corruption or database corruption. Disaster Natural disaster, earthquake, flood, tornado, etc. Fire Crime Theft, hacking, SQL injection, sabotage, etc. A malicious act, such as a worm, virus, Ransomware, hacking or theft of physical media. Studies show hardware failure and human error are the two most common causes of data loss, accounting for roughly three quarters of all incidents. Another cause of data loss is a natural disaster, which is a greater risk dependent on where the hardware is located. While the probability of data loss due to natural disaster is small, the only way to prepare for such an event is to store backup data in a separate physical location. As such, the best backup plans always include at least one copy being stored off-site. Cost The cost of a data loss event is directly related to the value of the data and the length of time that it is unavailable yet