What does the term "exfiltration" mean in information security?

The term "exfiltration" in information security refers to the unauthorized transfer of data from a system. This process typically involves extracting sensitive information from a secure environment, often without the consent of the organization that owns the data. Exfiltration can occur through various means, such as hacking, insider threats, or malware, and it poses significant risks to organizations by potentially leading to data breaches and loss of confidential information.

In the context of information security, understanding exfiltration is essential because it highlights the importance of implementing robust security measures to protect against unauthorized access and ensure that sensitive data remains secure. This concept also underscores the need for continuous monitoring and detection capabilities to identify and prevent unauthorized data transfers before they occur.