What does confidentiality primarily protect against?

Confidentiality primarily protects against unauthorized disclosure. This principle is fundamental in information security, focusing on ensuring that sensitive information is only accessible to individuals or entities who have the proper authorization to view it. By implementing measures such as encryption, access controls, and confidentiality agreements, organizations can prevent sensitive data from being accessed or disclosed to unauthorized users who may exploit it for malicious purposes.

The essence of confidentiality lies in safeguarding personal, corporate, and governmental information, thereby maintaining privacy and trust among stakeholders. This protection plays a crucial role in compliance with various regulatory frameworks, which often mandate strict guidelines for handling sensitive information to prevent breaches that could lead to reputational damage, legal liabilities, and financial loss.