Information Security Glossary

noun a gradual deterioration of data stored on a computer or other digital storage device

• Bit rot refers to the gradual decay or obsolescence of digital data over time.
• My old computer is starting to show signs of bit rot - it's getting slower and slower.
• I need to clean out my hard drive regularly to prevent bit rot from setting in.
• Neglecting to update your software can lead to bit rot in your system, causing it to become sluggish and inefficient.

verb to protect or separate something by creating a barrier or restriction around it

• The company decided to ringfence their profits to ensure they could cover any unexpected expenses.
• Let's ringfence some money for our vacation so we don't overspend.
• I'm going to ringfence my savings for that new gaming console.
• The government promised to ringfence funding for education, but it often gets reallocated elsewhere.