A data breach response plan establishes roles, communication protocols, forensic procedures, and legal considerations for handling security incidents involving personal or confidential data. Effective plans reduce response time, minimize damage, ensure regulatory notification compliance, and preserve evidence for investigation. When Equifax suffered a massive 2017 breach, delayed response and poor communication significantly worsened reputational and legal consequences. Plans should address internal coordination, external communications, regulatory reporting timelines, and customer notification requirements. Regular tabletop exercises and plan updates maintain organizational readiness.