What does the CIA triad in cybersecurity stand for?

The CIA triad in cybersecurity stands for Confidentiality, Integrity, and Availability. This foundational model is essential for understanding and addressing security challenges in information systems.

Confidentiality ensures that sensitive information is accessed only by authorized individuals or processes, protecting it from unauthorized access. This is critical in preventing data breaches and safeguarding private information.

Integrity refers to the accuracy and trustworthiness of data. It ensures that information cannot be altered in unauthorized ways, maintaining its validity, which is essential for decision-making and operational reliability.

Availability ensures that data and resources are accessible to authorized users when needed. This involves implementing measures to keep systems operational despite potential disruptions, such as attacks or natural disasters.

This triad serves as a guideline for organizations to develop security policies that achieve a balanced approach to protecting information systems. Each element is interconnected; for example, if confidentiality is compromised, the integrity and availability of the data may also be at risk, underscoring the importance of maintaining all three principles in cybersecurity strategies.