What principle is compromised if unauthorized users gain access to confidential information?

The principle compromised when unauthorized users gain access to confidential information is confidentiality. Confidentiality refers to the safeguarding of sensitive information from unauthorized access and ensuring that only those who are authorized can view or handle the data. When this principle is violated, it means that information intended to be kept secret is exposed to individuals or entities that should not have access to it, leading to potential misuse, data breaches, or loss of trust.

Other principles, while important, do not directly address the unauthorized access aspect. Integrity focuses on the accuracy and consistency of data, ensuring that it hasn't been tampered with or altered by unauthorized users. Availability pertains to the timely and reliable access to data and systems, which is a separate issue. Accountability relates to ensuring that actions can be traced back to responsible parties, which does not specifically address the issue of unauthorized access to confidential information.