Which term describes unauthorized access to sensitive data through logical reasoning by an authorized entity?

• A. Exfiltration
• B. Inaccessibility
• C. Inference
• D. Misappropriation

Answer: (C)

The term that describes unauthorized access to sensitive data through logical reasoning by an authorized entity is known as inference. This concept refers to situations where an individual who is granted access to some information can deduce or infer additional confidential data that they are not explicitly permitted to access. For instance, by piecing together seemingly benign information, an authorized user might infer sensitive personal data or proprietary information, granting them insights that violate data privacy and security protocols.

Inference is particularly significant in contexts like data mining or analytics, where patterns are drawn from available datasets that may lead to revealing more than what was originally intended or allowed. Understanding this concept is crucial because it highlights the ways in which data can be misused even by those with legitimate access, emphasizing the need for robust data protection measures that consider both direct access and indirect acquisition of sensitive information.