What does confidentiality mean in the context of information security?

Confidentiality in information security is fundamentally about protecting sensitive information from unauthorized access and disclosure. This principle ensures that only authorized individuals can view or handle specific information, thereby safeguarding against potential breaches of privacy or the exposure of critical data.

In various contexts, maintaining confidentiality involves implementing controls such as encryption, access permissions, and secure communication channels, all designed to ensure that sensitive data remains protected from those who do not have the appropriate authorization. By adhering to confidentiality principles, organizations can mitigate risks associated with information leaks and uphold trust with customers and stakeholders.

The other options address different aspects of information security. Accuracy relates to the integrity of information, ensuring it is accurate and unaltered. Recovery refers to the processes involved in restoring lost or compromised data. Accessibility speaks to the ease of retrieving information, which can sometimes conflict with confidentiality if not managed correctly. Thus, while these concepts are important in the broader scope of information security, they do not define confidentiality itself.