Which types of data are considered personally identifiable information (PII)?

The correct choice encompasses various forms of personally identifiable information (PII) that can directly identify an individual. Names, Social Security numbers, and addresses are classic examples of PII because they can be used individually or in combination to identify, locate, or contact a person. Specifically, a name and Social Security number can uniquely identify someone, and an address provides a physical location that can be traced back to an individual.

This classification is essential in the context of data security since PII often requires protection under various privacy laws and regulations, making it critical for organizations to handle such information with care. By identifying these data types as PII, it reinforces the responsibility to secure them against unauthorized access and breaches.

The other options do not fully capture the breadth of what constitutes PII. Bank account numbers may be considered sensitive financial information but do not represent the range of identifiers like names and Social Security numbers do. Passwords and usernames can serve as access credentials but do not identify individuals in the same widespread manner as the items listed in the correct choice. Data used for marketing purposes might include PII in some contexts, but it is not inherently classified as PII without additional identifying information. Hence, option B stands out as the most comprehensive example of what's considered