How should organizations respond to a suspected data breach according to DSAC Annex B?

Organizations should respond to a suspected data breach by following the incident response plan and promptly notifying affected individuals. This approach is critical for several reasons.

Firstly, an incident response plan outlines the necessary steps to take in the event of a data breach, ensuring that the organization reacts swiftly and effectively. This plan typically includes identifying the breach, containing it, assessing the damage, and implementing measures to prevent future incidents.

Prompt notification of affected individuals is also a fundamental aspect of breach response. By informing them quickly, organizations can help mitigate the impact of the breach, allowing individuals to take necessary precautions such as changing passwords or monitoring their accounts for suspicious activity. This transparency is essential for maintaining trust and complying with legal and regulatory obligations that often mandate timely disclosures in the event of a data breach.

In contrast to this correct response, ignoring the incident could lead to greater risks and complications, while replacing all hardware may be unnecessary if the breach was not due to a hardware failure. A public relations campaign, while potentially helpful in managing perceptions, should not be the primary response to a breach without addressing the underlying security incident and protecting the affected individuals.