Data security refers to the protective measures and protocols implemented to safeguard digital information from unauthorized access, corruption, theft, or loss. It encompasses a range of practices designed to protect sensitive data throughout its lifecycle, ensuring its confidentiality, integrity, and availability. Techniques in data security include encryption, access controls, authentication mechanisms, and regular audits.

The objective of data security is to prevent data breaches and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements such as GDPR and HIPAA, which mandate appropriate protections for personal and sensitive information. Data security is critical for organizations to maintain trust with stakeholders, protect intellectual property, and mitigate risks associated with cyber threats and data loss. Effective data security strategies also involve educating employees about security best practices, securing physical locations, and implementing incident response plans to address potential breaches swiftly and effectively.