This article also appeared in HL: Loss Prevention & Risk Management Newsletter (August 2011) and Advisen (August 10, 2011).

Data security breaches continue to mount, and no institution or individual is immune. Defense contractors, video game companies, universities and other organizations have recently experienced serious data thefts and attacks by hackers. The problem is so acute that even firms specializing in computer security have been attacked. While there are many things an organization can do to minimize both the risk and severity of a cyber attack, this article focuses on business insurance policies that may cover a cyber-related loss and how to protect those insurance coverage rights.