What security design principle involves classifying data into sensitivity levels and using mechanisms to protect it?

The correct principle under discussion is focused on classifying data into different sensitivity levels and applying appropriate protections based on that classification. This relates to the broader approach of data categorization and is crucial for implementing effective security measures.

Classifying data involves determining its sensitivity and the potential impact of unauthorized access. Organizations typically classify data into categories such as public, internal, confidential, or restricted. Once this classification is established, different mechanisms can be implemented to ensure the data's integrity, confidentiality, and availability, which is essentially what protects data in both transit (as it moves over the network) and at rest (when stored).

By employing this design principle, organizations can prioritize their resources towards protecting the most sensitive information, ensuring compliance with regulations, and managing the risks associated with data breaches or unauthorized access. This principle emphasizes that not all data requires the same level of protection, allowing for a more efficient allocation of security measures.

While the other options play essential roles in an overall security strategy, they do not explicitly address the classification of data based on sensitivity or the application of differentiated protection measures. For example, encryption and tokenization are specific methods to secure data, but do not inherently include a classification component; authenticating user identities focuses on verifying users rather than securing data