What is “Information Assurance”?

Information Assurance refers to the comprehensive practice of managing information-related risks while ensuring the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of data. This concept encompasses a broad range of activities, including risk assessment, the adoption of security measures, and ongoing monitoring to protect information throughout its lifecycle.

In this context, confidentiality ensures that sensitive data is only accessible to authorized individuals, integrity assures that the information remains accurate and unaltered, and availability guarantees that users have timely access to information when needed. By focusing on these three core principles—often referred to as the CIA triad—Information Assurance helps organizations safeguard their assets against potential threats and vulnerabilities, thereby enhancing overall security posture.

While implementing new technologies, software development strategies, or methods of information storage might play a role in supporting Information Assurance initiatives, they do not encapsulate its primary focus on risk management and the protective measures needed to maintain data security. Thus, the definition provided is the most accurate representation of what Information Assurance truly entails.