“Data Breach”: The Crisis Headline Du Jour

It’s what Ashley Madison and Target have in common, along with countless other organizations that have become victims of cyber attacks.

In fact, according to data compiled by CrisisResponsePro.com, press statements addressing illicit hacks increased nearly 27.9 percent in the first quarter 2015, and 19.6 percent in the second quarter.

Being prepared and transparently sharing your information about what is known about a hack can make or break your relationships with your employees and customers.

While hacked organizations are victims too, being the conduit for a breach of private information leaves them in the hot seat. Mishandling communications can turn people from concerned to irate in a matter of moments.