What does information security confidentiality mean?

Information security is an essential part of today's digital business environment, where companies are increasingly dependent on technology and networks.

In this article, we will focus on one of the most important aspects of information security, confidentiality, and how it should be respected, especially in a manufacturing company's OT network.

Confidentiality information security definition

Data confidentiality means protecting data from unauthorized access or disclosure. It is one of the three pillars of information security, which in addition to confidentiality include eheys (Integrity) and Availability (Availability) - collectively known as the CIA model. Confidentiality ensures that only authorized individuals have access to sensitive information.

The key objective of data confidentiality is to protect sensitive and valuable information - such as personal data, company secrets, business plans or customer information - from falling into the wrong hands. This is achieved through the use of various protection mechanisms such as encryption methods, access control and authentication processes.

How should the confidentiality principle be respected in the OT network of a manufacturing company?

In production networks, the principle of confidentiality is absolutely crucial. These networks are essential to the day-to-day operations of manufacturing companies, enabling them to manage and control critical industrial processes. These networks often carry strategically important information, which may be related to production quality, efficiency or safety, for example. Unauthorized disclosure or interference with this type of information could cause serious damage to a company, including production downtime, financial losses or reputational damage.

User authentication and rights management

Ensuring confidentiality in OT networks requires particular attention to user authentication and rights management. It is important that each user has a unique identity, and access to information should be restricted to those who have a need to know. This means that access rights should be tailored to the individual user, minimizing general or shared access. Access control and monitoring are also important measures to identify possible unauthorized access attempts or misuse.

High-performance encryption or cryptographic protocol

It is important to use effective encryption techniques to protect data on OT networks, especially when data moves over public networks. Encryption methods, or encryption protocols, render data unreadable unless the right key is used. This means that even if the information falls into the wrong hands, it would be unintelligible without the right encryption key. Encryption is particularly important for wireless connections, which are often more vulnerable to attack.

Data encryption is usually done using a VPN protocol. In this case, the data is packed into a pipe or tunnel with strong authentication, encryption and authentication.

Network segmentation

Network segmentation is an effective way to strengthen OT networks confidentiality. Segmentation refers to the division of a network into separate parts or segments, each with its own security parameters and access controls. In practice, this means that if an attacker gets through at one point, he will not automatically gain access to all parts of the network. Network segmentation therefore helps to limit the scope and impact of potential security breaches.

Regular security audits

Finally, maintaining security confidentiality in OT networks requires regular security auditing and monitoring. Continuous monitoring of the system and the network helps to detect any unusual or unauthorized activity in a timely manner. Routine security audits are also recommended to ensure that all systems are up-to-date and that best security practices are continuously followed. This may also include providing security training to staff so that they understand the security risks and act appropriately in accordance with security policies.

Summary

In summary, information security confidentiality is a vital part of a company's information security strategy. This principle requires constant attention and active maintenance to ensure that the company's most valuable information remains secure. In OT networks, adherence to the principle of confidentiality helps protect against a wide range of potential threats and is an essential part of a manufacturing company's information security practices.

Frequently asked

What is confidentiality in the processing of personal data?

Confidentiality in the processing of personal data means that information is processed securely and privately. It is a commitment to keep the information collected confidential and to use it only for the agreed purpose. Systems and processes must be designed so that only those who have a right and need to know have access to the information. However, confidentiality goes beyond this, including the protection of information from accidental disclosure or misinterpretation.

What is the difference between data protection and data security?

Data protection and data security both deal with important aspects of data processing, but they refer to different aspects and have different emphases. By understanding the differences between data protection and data security, you can better protect your organization's data and ensure that you comply with the relevant laws and regulations.

Data protection

Data protection refers to the rights and requirements of individuals in relation to the processing of their personal data. The main objective of data protection is to protect the privacy of individuals, in particular when their personal data is collected, stored, processed or shared. It also includes obligations on how organizations and systems collect, store and process personal data. Data protection laws, such as the European Union's General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), set strict requirements for the processing of personal data.

Information security

On the other hand, information security deals with measures and protocols that protect data from all types of threats. Information security aims to ensure the availability, integrity and confidentiality of information. Security mechanisms can be applied to both physical systems and digital systems and aim to protect them from damage, misuse and unauthorized access. Information security includes measures such as firewalls or firewall service, encryption, antivirus software and access management.