(ISC)2 Certified in Cybersecurity Practice Exam

What is the primary difference between confidentiality and privacy?

1. Confidentiality is about secure passwords, while privacy is about location tracking

2. Confidentiality protects information from unauthorized access, while privacy allows individuals control over personal information

3. There is no difference; both terms are interchangeable

4. Confidentiality includes data encryption, while privacy deals with data backup

The correct answer is: Confidentiality protects information from unauthorized access, while privacy allows individuals control over personal information

The choice that highlights the primary difference between confidentiality and privacy accurately delineates their respective roles in information security and personal data management. Confidentiality is fundamentally concerned with protecting sensitive information from unauthorized access, ensuring that only authorized individuals can view or handle that information. This involves implementing security measures such as encryption, access controls, and secure password practices. On the other hand, privacy focuses on the individual's right to control their personal information and how it is collected, used, and shared. It encompasses the ethical and legal frameworks that govern the handling of personal data, allowing individuals to make informed choices about their information. Thus, while confidentiality is about safeguarding data against unauthorized individuals to maintain its integrity and secrecy, privacy empowers individuals with authority over their personal data and how it is processed by others. This distinction is crucial for understanding the scope and applications of both concepts in the field of cybersecurity and data protection.