Which critical characteristic of information discussed is one that focuses on the fact when information stored, transferred, created, or placed is in the same state as it was received? Group of answer choices utility authenticity accuracy possession
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is authenticity.
Explanation:
Authenticity refers to the characteristic of information that ensures it is in the same state as it was when it was originally received, created, or transferred. In the context of information security and management, authenticity ensures that the data has not been altered or tampered with during storage, transfer, or processing. It preserves the integrity of the information by maintaining its original form, free from any unauthorized changes.
This is critical because, in various scenarios such as legal documentation, financial transactions, or personal communications, the trustworthiness of the information is paramount. If information is not authentic, its credibility and usefulness are compromised. For example, if a contract is altered or a financial report is manipulated, the decisions based on such information could lead to legal or financial repercussions.
On the other hand, other options such as utility, accuracy, and possession represent different aspects of information but do not directly address the state of the information being unaltered.
- Utility refers to the usefulness of information, indicating whether it serves a particular purpose or need.
- Accuracy speaks to how close the information is to the true value or reality, but it does not necessarily mean the information has remained in the same state from its origin.
- Possession refers to the ownership or control of information, but it does not relate to whether the information is in its original state.
Therefore, authenticity is the characteristic that ensures information remains unmodified from the time it was received, keeping it true to its original form and content.