What constitutes a data breach?

A data breach is specifically defined as an incident where there is an unauthorized acquisition of computerized data that compromises personal information. This definition emphasizes the aspect of unauthorized access, which is crucial in determining whether a breach has occurred. When data is compromised without proper authorization, it can result in significant harm to individuals, including risks of identity theft, financial loss, or privacy violations.

The correct answer encapsulates the idea that the integrity, confidentiality, or availability of personal information has been breached due to unauthorized access, thereby exposing sensitive data. Understanding this definition is essential for complying with privacy regulations and protecting individuals' data rights.

In contrast, other options illustrate scenarios that do not fit the definition of a data breach. Authorized access to personal information involves individuals or entities accessing data they have permission to view, which does not constitute a breach. Sharing data with subsidiaries is typically a legitimate business practice, provided it complies with applicable laws and agreements. Retaining user data for marketing purposes, while related to data governance and consent, does not inherently involve an unauthorized acquisition or compromise of personal information, so it does not define a breach either.