Why is it important to secure data at rest?

Securing data at rest is crucial primarily because sensitive information is often stored in that state. Data at rest refers to inactive data that is not actively being used or transmitted, such as files stored on hard drives, cloud storage, or databases. This type of data can contain personally identifiable information (PII), financial records, intellectual property, and other confidential information that, if compromised, could lead to identity theft, financial loss, or significant reputational damage to both individuals and organizations.

When sensitive data is not adequately protected, it becomes vulnerable to unauthorized access, breaches, and cyberattacks. Encryption, access controls, and other security measures are necessary to safeguard this data and ensure that only authorized personnel can view or utilize it. By prioritizing the security of data at rest, organizations can mitigate the risks associated with data breaches and comply with regulatory requirements that mandate the protection of sensitive information.