ROT data refers to information within an organization’s systems that has lost its value or relevance. This acronym breaks down into three categories:

• Redundant: Duplicate or repetitive data in multiple locations or formats
• Obsolete: Outdated information that is no longer accurate, useful, or applicable to current operations
• Trivial: Data of minimal or no business value, often collected but rarely, if ever, used

Accumulation of ROT data can lead to increased storage costs, reduced system performance, and heightened security risks. It complicates data management, potentially obscuring valuable information and making it harder to maintain regulatory compliance. Regularly identifying and eliminating ROT data is crucial for maintaining efficient, secure, and compliant data ecosystems. This process, often part of broader data governance strategies, helps organizations optimize their data storage, improve system performance, and reduce potential attack surfaces for cybercriminals.