Which of the following is true regarding PII?

The correct assertion regarding Personally Identifiable Information (PII) is that it includes information that can identify an individual. PII is defined as any data that could potentially identify a specific individual, whether directly or indirectly. This encompasses a broad range of information types, including but not limited to names, addresses, social security numbers, and account details. The recognition of PII is crucial because it helps organizations understand what data they need to protect in order to comply with various privacy regulations and to safeguard individual privacy.

Understanding PII is foundational to assessing the risks associated with data breaches. Identifying and classifying data correctly can help organizations implement appropriate security measures to mitigate the impact of potential data breaches.

In contrast, the other statements are inaccurate. PII can be obtained from both private and public sources, including social media and public records, thus making the idea that it can only come from private sources incorrect. Moreover, the responsibility to protect PII extends beyond government organizations; various private entities and businesses are also required to safeguard this type of information under different regulations. Finally, PII is highly relevant when assessing the impact of data breaches because the exposure of such information can lead to identity theft, financial fraud, and a breach of personal privacy, which can carry