What is the definition of Integrity in terms of data security?

Integrity in the context of data security refers to the assurance that information is accurate and trustworthy, and that it has not been altered or tampered with by unauthorized individuals. This essential principle ensures that data remains intact and reflects its original state throughout its lifecycle. When integrity is maintained, it guarantees that users can rely on the authenticity and validity of the data they are using, which is critical in various applications such as financial records, legal documentation, and other sensitive information.

The focus on preventing unauthorized modifications is central to preserving data integrity. It involves implementing controls like access permissions, checksums, and digital signatures to detect any unauthorized changes and uphold the trustworthiness of the information.

In contrast, accessibility, securing data from external influences, and regular backups, while crucial aspects of data management and security, do not directly define integrity. Accessibility relates to the availability of data, while securing data addresses confidentiality and protection from unauthorized access. Regular backups ensure data availability and recovery but do not specifically pertain to the integrity of the data itself. Thus, the correct understanding of integrity in data security can be effectively encapsulated by the definition concerning unauthorized modifications.