The practice of protecting digital data from unauthorized access, corruption, or theft throughout its entire lifecycle. It includes a set of standards and technologies that protect data from intentional or accidental destruction, modification, or disclosure. Data security involves a range of tactics, such as encryption, tokenization, and key management practices that protect data across all applications and platforms. It also involves physical and administrative strategies to control access to hard-copy and electronically stored data. Data security is crucial for maintaining the integrity and privacy of information in both business and personal contexts.