What term is used to describe information that must be kept secret?

The term "highly confidential" specifically refers to a category of information that must be preserved in secrecy due to its sensitive nature. This term implies that the information is not only confidential but is of such a level of sensitivity that its disclosure could cause significant harm to an individual or organization.

In many contexts, such as in employment law or corporate governance, this classification emphasizes the need for strict access controls, legal protections, and secure handling procedures. "Highly confidential" designations often apply to information such as trade secrets, proprietary data, personal employee information, or any other data that could lead to a breach of privacy or competitive advantage if disclosed.

While other terms like "sensitive data," "private information," and "restricted access" relate to information that is not meant for public exposure, they do not carry the same weight of urgency or implications that "highly confidential" does. Sensitive data can encompass a broader range of information that may require safeguarding, but not all sensitive data reaches the level of being classified as highly confidential. Private information may vary in seriousness based on its context, and restricted access is more about who has permission to view the information rather than the categorization of the information itself. Therefore, "highly confidential" is the most