Data Access Control

Definition ∞ Data access control regulates who can view, modify, or otherwise interact with specific information within a system. This security mechanism specifies permissions for various users or roles, ensuring that sensitive data is protected from unauthorized disclosure or alteration. In decentralized systems, it often involves cryptographic methods or smart contract logic to enforce granular control over data stored on a blockchain or distributed ledger. Effective data access control is critical for maintaining privacy and security across digital platforms.
Context ∞ Data access control is a crucial topic in blockchain applications, particularly for sectors like healthcare or supply chain where privacy and data sovereignty are paramount. News reports frequently cover innovations in zero-knowledge proofs and other cryptographic techniques designed to enhance secure, selective data sharing on decentralized networks. The balance between data transparency on public ledgers and individual privacy remains a key area of development and debate.