CIA Triad in IT Security

Overview

• CIA Triad is a fundamental principle in IT security.
• Sometimes called AIC Triad to avoid confusion with the Central Intelligence Agency.
• Comprises three key elements: Confidentiality, Integrity, and Availability.

Confidentiality (C)

• Prevents unauthorized access to information.
• Ensures information is accessible only to those authorized.
• Methods to ensure confidentiality:
  • Encryption: Converts data to unreadable format for unauthorized users.
  • Access Controls: Limits who can view or modify data.
    • Example: Marketing personnel can access marketing info, but not accounting info.
  • Authentication Factors: Multi-factor authentication to verify user identity.

Integrity (I)

• Ensures data sent and received is unchanged and accurate.
• Methods to ensure integrity:
  • Hashing: Sender creates a hash value of data; receiver checks hash to verify data integrity.
  • Digital Signatures: Encrypts hash value; confirms data integrity and sender authenticity.
  • Certificates: Authenticate devices or individuals and maintain data integrity.
  • Non-repudiation: Proof that received data undeniably came from the sender.

Availability (A)

• Ensures data and systems are accessible when needed.
• Methods to ensure availability:
  • System Design: Create systems meant to be always operational.
  • Fault Tolerant Systems: Use redundant components to prevent downtime in case of failure.
  • System Management and Updates: Regular patching to maintain system stability and security.

Notes

• The CIA Triad is visualized as a triangle with each leg representing one element.
• Balancing the triad elements is critical for robust IT security.
• Effective implementation of the triad requires ongoing maintenance and monitoring.