What does the "I" in the CIA Triad represent?

The "I" in the CIA Triad represents Integrity. In the context of cybersecurity, integrity ensures that data is accurate, consistent, and trusted throughout its lifecycle. This means that information has not been altered or tampered with by unauthorized users, thereby preserving its authenticity. When integrity is maintained, users can be confident that the data they are using is reliable and has not been subject to manipulation.

In practical terms, maintaining integrity often involves implementing measures such as checksums, hashing, and digital signatures. These tools help verify that data remains unchanged during storage or transmission. Ensuring data integrity is fundamental in protecting sensitive information and ensuring the reliability of systems and processes in an organization. By prioritizing integrity as part of the overall security posture, organizations can significantly reduce the risks associated with data breaches or corruption.