Cloud data theft does not always look like a dramatic download of an entire database.
Microsoft reported 2026 activity involving sustained access to SharePoint, OneDrive and Exchange data through compromised identities.
Attackers can move gradually, using legitimate cloud APIs and permissions associated with the victim account.
That makes detection difficult if each individual action looks normal.
Organisations therefore need to correlate identity activity with unusual file access, authentication changes and API behaviour.
For users, the lesson is that protecting the account protects much more than the inbox.
A compromised Microsoft 365 identity can potentially provide access to documents, shared files and organisational information.
Strong authentication and rapid reporting of suspicious account activity matter.