Integrity
This can be thought of as accuracy. This refers to the ability to protect information, data, or
transmissions from unauthorized, uncontrolled, or accidental alterations. The term integrity
can also be used in reference to the functioning of a network, system, or application.
When used in reference to information or data there are several requirements for integrity.
First, data must be consistent with internal requirements. For example, arithmetic calculations
must be accurate; all of the numbers in a column representing the deposits to a company's
bank account should equal the total stored for that column of deposits. Second, data must also
be consistent with external requirements. The total representing the sum of the deposits
should match what was actually deposited to the bank account. Data must also be timely and
complete. If data is a day or a week behind, then its integrity is in question. Similarly, if not
all of the data is being recorded, its integrity is doubtful.
Data integrity is achieved by preventing unauthorized or improper changes to data, ensuring
internal and external consistency, and ensuring that other data attributes (such as timeliness
and completeness) are consistent with requirements.
Integrity can be used in reference to the proper functioning of a network, system, or
application. For example, when the term integrity is used in reference to a system it means
that the system behaves according to design, specifications, and expectations even under
adverse circumstances such as an attack or disaster. System integrity remains high under
duress.