Which factor contributed significantly to data theft during the rise of cyber attacks?

The rise of data theft is closely linked to increased internet usage. As more individuals and organizations connected to the internet, the volume of accessible data grew substantially. This expansion created more opportunities for cybercriminals to exploit vulnerabilities in online systems, making it easier for them to execute attacks and steal sensitive information. The growing interconnectivity among devices and networks means that a larger attack surface is available for malicious actors. Increased internet usage has also facilitated the proliferation of online activities, such as e-commerce and social networking, where sensitive data is often shared, further heightening the risk of data breaches.

While encryption technology and enhanced security protocols are important for protecting data, they serve as defenses against cyber attacks rather than factors contributing to their rise. Similarly, outdated computer systems can be a vulnerability, but the primary driver of increased data theft has been the overall expansion of internet usage, which creates more opportunities for attacks.