What does Integrity refer to in the context of security?

Integrity, in the context of security, specifically refers to the assurance that information is accurate, consistent, and safeguarded against unauthorized alterations. This means that individuals can trust that the data they are using has not been modified maliciously or accidentally. Maintaining integrity involves implementing controls and mechanisms to prevent unauthorized access, editing, or deletion of data.

The emphasis on the prevention of unauthorized data alterations means that organizations must deploy various strategies, such as access controls, hashing, digital signatures, and audits, to ensure that data remains in its intended state from the moment it is created throughout its lifecycle.

This principle is crucial for maintaining trust in systems that rely on data integrity for decision-making, compliance, and many other operations that depend on the accuracy of information. By safeguarding against unauthorized alterations, organizations can uphold the reliability of their data, which is essential for effective security management.