Which principle requires that data be securely discarded when no longer needed?

Which principle requires that data be securely discarded when no longer needed?

• A. Availability
• B. Integrity
• C. Confidentiality
• D. Non-repudiation

Answer: (C)

Confidentiality focuses on preventing unauthorized access to information. When data is no longer needed, securely discarding it—such as shredding paper or securely wiping digital storage—ensures that the information cannot be recovered or exposed. That is why this principle requires secure disposal. Availability is about ensuring data is accessible when needed, integrity concerns the accuracy and trustworthiness of data, and non-repudiation deals with proving actions or transactions occurred and cannot be denied; none of these directly address securely discarding data to protect confidentiality.

Confidentiality focuses on preventing unauthorized access to information. When data is no longer needed, securely discarding it—such as shredding paper or securely wiping digital storage—ensures that the information cannot be recovered or exposed. That is why this principle requires secure disposal. Availability is about ensuring data is accessible when needed, integrity concerns the accuracy and trustworthiness of data, and non-repudiation deals with proving actions or transactions occurred and cannot be denied; none of these directly address securely discarding data to protect confidentiality.