Definition
Confidentiality
Confidentiality is the security property that ensures information is accessible only to those authorised to have access. It prevents the unauthorised disclosure of information to individuals, entities, or processes.
Mechanisms
Confidentiality is typically enforced through:
- Access control: Restricting which subjects may read which objects
- Information flow control: Ensuring information does not flow to unauthorised recipients
- Encryption: Rendering information unintelligible without the proper key
- Authentication: Verifying the identity of entities before granting access
Relation to the CIA Triad
Confidentiality in Context
Confidentiality is one of three core security properties, alongside:
- Integrity (Security): ensuring information is not improperly modified
- Availability: ensuring authorised access when needed