The reliability, correctness, and consistency of data at every stage of its lifecycle—from creation to deletion—are referred to as data integrity. It is an essential component of data management that guarantees data is reliable and suitable for the intended use.
Administrative and technical measures work together to preserve data integrity. Technological controls can shield data against unwanted alteration, loss, or corruption by utilizing encryption, access controls, backup and recovery procedures, and other security measures. Policies, processes, and training are examples of administrative controls that guarantee proper handling of data and users’ understanding of their roles in preserving data integrity.
Data integrity is crucial for adhering to data protection laws like the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), which require organizations to guarantee the accuracy and dependability of personal data. It is also necessary for preserving the trust and confidence of stakeholders who depend on data for decision-making, such as customers, partners, regulators, and internal users.
