Overview
This lecture introduces the CIA triad—confidentiality, integrity, and availability—as the foundational model for information security policies.
The CIA Triad
- The CIA triad stands for confidentiality, integrity, and availability in information security.
- These three principles guide the development of workplace and personal security policies.
Confidentiality
- Confidentiality means keeping data hidden from unauthorized users.
- Limiting access to data ensures only necessary individuals can view sensitive information.
- Password protection is a common method for maintaining confidentiality.
Integrity
- Integrity ensures data remains accurate and unaltered during storage or transmission.
- Changes to files, such as unexpected file sizes after download, may signal integrity issues.
- Protecting integrity prevents tampering or corruption of data.
Availability
- Availability means authorized users can access needed information when required.
- Systems must be prepared for data loss or downtime to ensure continued availability.
- Security attacks may disrupt availability, steal data, or require recovery efforts.
The Importance of the CIA Triad
- All aspects of security revolve around confidentiality, integrity, and availability.
- Understanding and applying the CIA triad helps prevent security breaches and data loss.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Confidentiality — Keeping information hidden from unauthorized access.
- Integrity — Ensuring data remains unchanged and accurate.
- Availability — Guaranteeing authorized users have timely access to information.
- CIA Triad — The model of confidentiality, integrity, and availability in information security.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Reflect on how the CIA triad can be applied to your own data and systems.
- Prepare for upcoming lessons on implementing these principles in real-world scenarios.