The CIA Triad – The Three Pillars of Protection

Cybersecurity is built on three promises known as the C I A Triad:

Pillar

Meaning

Everyday Example

Confidentiality

Keeping data secret from people who shouldn’t see it.

Your private chats should stay between you and your friend.

Integrity

Making sure data isn’t changed or damaged.

When your teacher enters your grade, no one should be able to alter it.

Availability

Making sure systems work when you need them.

You can still open Google Docs even when everyone is online at once.

If any of these fail, we have a security incident.