What type of information is protected by law and can only be released to authorized parties?

The correct answer is that confidential information is specifically protected by law, meaning it cannot be disclosed to unauthorized individuals or parties. This type of information often includes sensitive personal data, medical records, and details related to investigations, where privacy must be maintained to protect individuals' rights and prevent misuse. Laws like HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) in the United States define and enforce confidentiality, ensuring that only specific, authorized persons, such as healthcare providers or legal representatives, can access this information.

Public information, on the other hand, is available to anyone and does not require special authorization for access. Common knowledge refers to information that is widely known and can be freely shared without legal restriction. General records can encompass a variety of information but do not necessarily indicate that it is protected or confidential. This further highlights why confidential information is categorized distinctly, owing to the need for strict control over its dissemination to safeguard individual privacy and legal rights.