A global technology firm detects unauthorized access to its proprietary designs. What type of data exfiltration is this an example of?

The situation described involves unauthorized access to a technology firm’s proprietary designs, which typically indicates a targeted effort to steal confidential or sensitive information. This aligns with the definition of espionage, where individuals or entities seek to gain access to confidential information, often for competitive advantage or strategic benefit. Espionage can occur in both corporate and governmental contexts, highlighting its significance in the realm of information security.

In this case, the unauthorized access suggests that there is a motive behind the theft that is more complex than simply financial gain, which eliminates the possibility of data theft for financial gain. While blackmail involves coercing someone into paying to keep information secret, the scenario does not described an intent to extract money through threats, focusing instead on the nature of the data compromised. Phishing involves tricking someone into revealing information, often through deceptive communications, but this does not align with the direct access to proprietary designs as indicated here.

Thus, the situation exemplifies espionage, as it highlights a deliberate act of accessing and potentially stealing important intellectual property without consent.