6-1-1 Confidentiality Explained

Key Concepts

• Data Confidentiality
• Access Control
• Encryption
• Data Masking
• Least Privilege Principle

Data Confidentiality

Data Confidentiality refers to the protection of data from unauthorized access and disclosure. It ensures that sensitive information is only accessible to those who are authorized to view it. This is crucial for maintaining privacy and preventing data breaches.

Access Control

Access Control is the practice of restricting access to resources based on the user's role and permissions. It involves authentication (verifying the identity of users) and authorization (granting or denying access based on predefined rules). Effective access control ensures that only authorized users can access sensitive data.

Encryption

Encryption is the process of converting data into a code to prevent unauthorized access. It ensures that even if data is intercepted, it cannot be read without the decryption key. Encryption is widely used to protect data both at rest (stored data) and in transit (data being transferred).

Data Masking

Data Masking is a technique used to hide sensitive data from unauthorized users while still allowing it to be used for testing or analysis. This is often done by replacing sensitive data with fictitious data that looks real but does not contain actual sensitive information.

Least Privilege Principle

The Least Privilege Principle is a security concept that restricts users to the minimum level of access necessary to perform their job functions. This principle minimizes the risk of unauthorized access and reduces the impact of potential security breaches.

Examples and Analogies

Think of Data Confidentiality as a locked safe. Only those with the key (authorized users) can access the contents inside.

Access Control is like a bouncer at a club. They check your ID (authentication) and decide whether you can enter based on your status (authorization).

Encryption is akin to writing a secret message in code. Without the decoder ring (decryption key), the message remains unreadable.

Data Masking is like using a fake ID for testing purposes. It looks real, but it doesn't contain any actual personal information.

The Least Privilege Principle is similar to a bank teller who only has access to the cash drawer they are responsible for. They don't need access to the entire vault.