What does tampering with an asset signify?

Tampering with an asset signifies an integrity violation because it involves unauthorized modification, alteration, or manipulation of data or systems. When an asset is tampered with, its original state or value is compromised, leading to a distortion of the intended information or function. Integrity in information security ensures that data remains accurate, consistent, and trustworthy. Any unauthorized changes directly challenge those principles, indicating that the data is no longer reliable.

Other choices do not accurately capture the essence of tampering. For instance, an interception attack typically involves unauthorized access to data while it is being transmitted, rather than altering it. Possession issues concern whether an individual has rightful access to an asset or information, which is not inherently linked to tampering. Utility loss refers to a decrease in the functional value of an asset but does not specifically address the integrity aspect that tampering fundamentally compromises.