Data Classification
Data classification is a process of categorizing data based on its sensitivity, value, and regulatory requirements to determine appropriate handling, protection, and storage measures. It involves labeling data with tags such as public, internal, confidential, or restricted to enforce security policies and compliance standards. This foundational practice helps organizations manage risk, prioritize security efforts, and ensure data governance across systems.
Developers should learn data classification to build secure applications that comply with regulations like GDPR, HIPAA, or PCI-DSS, as it guides access controls, encryption, and audit trails. It is essential in industries like finance, healthcare, and government where sensitive data handling is critical, and it helps prevent data breaches by applying appropriate security measures based on data sensitivity.