Which process analyzes data for certain attributes to determine the appropriate controls and policies?

Classification is the process that analyzes data based on specific attributes to identify the appropriate controls and policies required for handling that data. This typically involves evaluating factors such as sensitivity, confidentiality, and regulatory requirements, which lead to the categorization of data into different classes. Each classification level dictates the security measures needed, such as encryption, access controls, and oversight protocols, ensuring that data is adequately protected according to its importance.

This process is crucial in cloud security as it helps organizations establish a framework for managing and safeguarding data. By understanding the attributes of the data, organizations can implement tailored control measures that align with legal obligations and internal security policies. For instance, sensitive personal data may require stricter access controls compared to less sensitive information.

In contrast, the other options involve different aspects of data management. Monitoring refers to the continuous observation of systems and data to detect anomalies or security threats but does not categorize or define data controls. Discovery involves identifying and locating all data within a system, often for compliance or security assessments, which precedes classification. eDiscovery specifically relates to the process of collecting and producing electronic information for legal purposes and is typically used in litigation contexts. Thus, while related to data management, these processes do not focus on determining the appropriate controls and policies in