konfidensiell

Konfidensiell is an adjective used in Norwegian to describe information or matters that should be kept secret or restricted to authorized persons. In everyday and professional use, a konfidensiell designation indicates that disclosure could harm interests such as privacy, business competitiveness, or national security. Documents labeled konfidensiell are intended for restricted circulation, often with access limited to specific individuals or groups. In some contexts, a higher level may be specified, such as strengt konfidensiell, to indicate tighter controls.

The term derives from the Latin confidere and from French confidentiel, entering Norwegian via Danish or Swedish usage. It is closely related to fortrolig, a term used to denote trust and limited distribution, though fortrolig and konfidensiell carry somewhat different nuance.

Classifying information as konfidensiell triggers obligations under data protection and professional secrecy rules. In Norway, personal data protection laws, such as GDPR as implemented by the Personal Data Act, require appropriate safeguards (access controls, encryption, retention limits). Public agencies may protect konfidensiell information under the Freedom of Information Act with exemptions. In professional settings, individuals may be bound by confidentiality agreements and ethical duties.

Practically, handling konfidensiell information involves the need-to-know principle, secure storage (locked files, encrypted digital systems), and documented access logs. Breaches may carry legal or disciplinary consequences.