data loss

Data loss is an error condition in information systems in which information is destroyed by failures or neglect 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 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 spill, although the term data loss has been used in those incidents. Data loss incidents can be also data spill incidents, such as in the case of media containing sensitive information being lost and subsequently acquired by another party. However, data spills are possible without the data being lost in the originating side.