In the context of data security, what is the definition of "integrity"?

The concept of "integrity" in data security is defined as the accuracy and consistency of data over its lifecycle. This means that the information must remain unchanged and reliable from the moment it is created until it is archived or deleted. Integrity ensures that data is not altered in an unauthorized manner, preventing damage, corruption, or distortion of the information.

Maintaining data integrity is crucial in various fields, including finance, healthcare, and any industry where data accuracy is imperative for decision-making. For example, if a financial report reflects incorrect figures due to tampering or accidental errors, it can lead to poor business decisions or legal issues.

The other options do not accurately capture the meaning of integrity. Easy access to information pertains more to availability rather than the accuracy or correctness of the information. Data storage efficiency relates to how well data is organized and stored, and data availability in multiple formats deals with the accessibility of data in different types or representations, none of which directly address the accuracy and consistency required for integrity.