Basics of data protection
In order to effectively protect data, it is important for IT auditors to understand the different types of sensitive data that organizations handle. Sensitive data refers to information that, if disclosed, altered, or destroyed without authorization, could cause significant harm to individuals or organizations. Let’s explore some common categories of sensitive data.
Personally Identifiable Information (PII)
PII is typically anything that can be used to identify someone based solely on the data provided. Examples of PII include the following:
- Name
- Address
- Phone number
- Email address
- Social Security number
- Driver’s license number
- Passport information
- Biometric data (e.g., fingerprints, facial recognition data)
Protecting PII is critical, as its unauthorized disclosure can lead to identity theft, financial fraud, and other harmful consequences for individuals.
