Data that is protected by encryption so that it can be transported or stored without fear of compromise. Also known as encrypted data. Source: CNSSI No. 4005 (COMSEC)
What is black data?
The term Black Data refers to information that is encrypted or otherwise protected so its plaintext content is not exposed to personnel or systems that handle the protected data path. It gives election, security, legal, or technical readers a specific label for the concept rather than a broader everyday meaning.
How is black data used in cryptography or COMSEC?
In practice, Black Data is applied to the technical or security purpose captured by its definition: information that is encrypted or otherwise protected so its plaintext content is not exposed to personnel or systems that handle the protected data path. Organizations combine that function with documented procedures, authorized access, testing, monitoring, and controls appropriate to the system.
Why does black data need security controls?
Understanding Black Data matters because the concept can affect security, reliability, auditability, or trusted operation. In this glossary context, it refers to information that is encrypted or otherwise protected so its plaintext content is not exposed to personnel or systems that handle the protected data path.
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Data that is protected by encryption so that it can be transported or stored without fear of compromise. Also known as encrypted data. Source: CNSSI No. 4005 (COMSEC)
Cite this term
Election Security Glossary. (2026). Black Data. In Election Security Glossary. Retrieved August 21, 2026, from https://electionsecurityglossary.com/glossary/black-data
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