Which of the following is essential for ensuring data integrity?

Implementing encryption measures is vital for ensuring data integrity because encryption transforms data into a format that cannot be easily read or altered without the appropriate decryption keys. When sensitive information is encrypted, it safeguards the data from unauthorized access and tampering, helping to maintain its accuracy and reliability over time. This means that even if data is intercepted, it remains protected and unchanged, which is essential for maintaining trust in the information being processed or transmitted.

While the other options contribute to overall security and risk management, they do not focus directly on maintaining the integrity of the data itself in the same way that encryption does. Regularly changing passwords enhances authentication but does not by itself ensure integrity. Minimizing user access reduces risk but does not protect data if it is compromised. Conducting employee training increases awareness and security best practices but does not directly affect data integrity. Therefore, encryption stands out as a crucial method specifically targeting the assurance of data integrity.