Certified Governance Risk and Compliance (CGRC) Practice Exam 2026 - Free CGRC Practice Questions and Study Guide

The correct answer focuses on the concept of integrity, which refers to the assurance that data remains accurate, consistent, and unaltered throughout its lifecycle. When data possesses integrity, it means that it has not been modified, tampered with, or corrupted in any unauthorized way. This attribute is crucial for ensuring that stakeholders can trust the information they are using, particularly in environments where data accuracy is paramount, such as financial records or health information systems.

Confidentiality deals with ensuring that data is accessible only to authorized individuals, safeguarding sensitive information from unauthorized access. Availability refers to the guarantee that information and resources are accessible when needed, emphasizing the operational aspect of data systems rather than data content itself. Authentication verifies the identity of individuals accessing the data, which is vital for establishing trust but does not directly relate to data modification. Together, these aspects contribute to a comprehensive approach to data security, but integrity specifically addresses the preservation of data's original state against unauthorized changes.