Who is responsible for granting formal authorization for user access to protected files?

Who is responsible for granting formal authorization for user access to protected files?

• A. The process owner.
• B. The system administrator.
• C. The data owner.
• D. The security manager.

Answer: (C)

The data owner holds the responsibility for granting formal authorization for user access to protected files. This is because the data owner is typically the individual or entity that has the authority over the data's classification, usage, and management. They are most familiar with the sensitivity and criticality of the data and are therefore best positioned to make informed decisions about who should access it. By establishing access controls, the data owner ensures that only authorized users can view or manipulate the data, safeguarding it against unauthorized access and potential breaches. This role is crucial for maintaining the integrity and confidentiality of the information, aligning with the organization's data governance policies. In contrast, while system administrators may manage the technical aspects of access controls, such as implementing security settings or maintaining systems, they do not have the authority to grant access without the data owner's approval. Similarly, the security manager focuses on the overall security framework and policy enforcement, but also does not have the authority to grant data access. The process owner may oversee processes related to data management, but again, does not hold the authority to make access decisions concerning the protected files.

The data owner holds the responsibility for granting formal authorization for user access to protected files. This is because the data owner is typically the individual or entity that has the authority over the data's classification, usage, and management. They are most familiar with the sensitivity and criticality of the data and are therefore best positioned to make informed decisions about who should access it.

By establishing access controls, the data owner ensures that only authorized users can view or manipulate the data, safeguarding it against unauthorized access and potential breaches. This role is crucial for maintaining the integrity and confidentiality of the information, aligning with the organization's data governance policies.

In contrast, while system administrators may manage the technical aspects of access controls, such as implementing security settings or maintaining systems, they do not have the authority to grant access without the data owner's approval. Similarly, the security manager focuses on the overall security framework and policy enforcement, but also does not have the authority to grant data access. The process owner may oversee processes related to data management, but again, does not hold the authority to make access decisions concerning the protected files.