Definition
Data Security encompasses organisational and technical measures used to protect data against unauthorised access, loss, alteration or destruction.
Human Explanation
It helps keep data confidential, accurate and available to authorised users when needed.
Why it Matters
Loss, disclosure or corruption of data can disrupt operations, cause financial and legal consequences and damage trust.
Conceptual Boundary
Data Security focuses on protecting data. It does not determine whether collecting or using that data is lawful, ethical or necessary; those questions belong primarily to Data Privacy and governance. It is also narrower than Data Protection, which addresses data throughout its lifecycle.
Practical Perspective
Effective Data Security combines controls such as access restrictions, encryption, backups, secure configuration and monitoring. The appropriate controls depend on data classification, its use and the risks surrounding it.