What defines confidential records?

Confidential records are specifically defined as materials that are only released to authorized individuals as designated by law. This means that access to these records is restricted to certain individuals or groups who have the legal right to view or obtain them, often to protect privacy, sensitive information, or security concerns. The designation of confidentiality often stems from regulations and laws that dictate how personal information must be handled and who can access it, providing a safeguard against unauthorized disclosure.

In contrast, the other choices describe records that lack confidentiality. For instance, materials that can be inspected by any member of the public or documents that are freely accessible via the internet do not meet the criteria for confidentiality. Additionally, records that anyone can copy without permission clearly indicate no restrictions on access, making them fundamentally different from confidential records, which are strictly regulated.