Which of the following methods is used to check for errors in data?

Data validation checks are an essential method used to ensure the accuracy and integrity of data by identifying any errors or inconsistencies before it is processed or utilized. These checks can involve various techniques, such as format validation, range checks, and consistency checks, which help verify that the data conforms to predefined rules or standards.

For instance, during data entry, validation checks can confirm that a date is entered in the correct format or that numerical values fall within acceptable ranges. By performing these checks, organizations can reduce errors, improve data quality, and ensure that subsequent analyses and decisions are based on reliable information. This proactive approach is crucial, especially in environments where data integrity is critical for operational success.

In contrast, data encryption is primarily focused on protecting data confidentiality by converting it into a secure format that can only be deciphered by authorized users. Access controls manage who can view or use data, ensuring that sensitive information is only accessible to those with the appropriate permissions. Hashing, while useful for verifying data integrity by creating a fixed-size string representation of data, serves more to detect changes or tampering rather than systematically checking for errors at the time of data entry or processing. Thus, while each of these methods plays a role in data security and integrity, data validation checks