It often starts small. An email that feels slightly off. A file sent to the wrong place. Or a message that lingers: “Your data may have been shared.” In the e-learning Data Breach Handling, employees experience how such situations unfold — and what is expected of them.
The course opens with a story-driven video centred on Eva. No panic, no drama. Just uncertainty and the question: what now? Through her perspective, participants experience how a potential data breach emerges and why staying calm and taking control is essential.
The course then explains clearly what a data breach is. Not only large-scale hacks make headlines. Everyday situations can also lead to breaches, such as sending the wrong email attachment, losing an unsecured laptop or granting unintended access to sensitive information. The course emphasises that data breaches are often caused by human error as much as by cyberattacks.
Participants learn how to recognise data breaches. Some are obvious, such as stolen devices. Others are subtle: unexplained login attempts, missing files or access to information that should be restricted. Employees are encouraged to trust their instincts. Doubt is not a weakness — it is an early warning sign.
Prevention is a key focus. Employees receive practical guidance on reducing risk: handling email carefully, using strong passwords, avoiding unsecured data sharing and staying alert to phishing and social engineering. The course shows how attackers exploit urgency and authority to provoke mistakes.
The core of the course focuses on handling a data breach. What should you do when something seems wrong? The message is clear: act fast. Do not wait, do not try to fix it alone — report it immediately to IT or the responsible authority. Early action can significantly reduce damage and prevent escalation.
Real-life examples demonstrate the difference between delay and decisive action. A single timely report can be the difference between a minor incident and a major breach with legal and reputational consequences.
The course concludes by highlighting individual responsibility. Information security is not only an IT issue. Every employee is a first line of defence. By staying alert, following guidelines and reporting incidents, employees protect data — and the trust of customers, colleagues and partners.
The key takeaway is clear: mistakes can happen, but how you respond determines the impact.
What will participants learn?
After completing this course, participants will:
- understand what a data breach is
- recognise signals of potential data breaches
- know how data breaches can occur
- understand how to limit damage
- know what to do immediately when a breach is suspected
- take responsibility for protecting sensitive information
Who is this course for?
This course is suitable for:
- all employees, regardless of role or technical background
- organisations strengthening GDPR awareness
- teams handling personal or business data
- employees seeking clarity on incident response
Why this course is relevant right now
Data breaches continue to rise and are often caused by small mistakes. Training employees to recognise and respond correctly reduces risk and supports regulatory compliance.