Which of the following is the definition of information assurance $($IA$)?$

a$.$ An audit of federal systems prior to being placed into a production

environment.

b$.$ Protection of the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of data, and providing

for authentication and nonrepudiation of services.

c$.$ An act of Congress to recognize the importance of information security United

States interests.

d$.$ An act of Congress to protect the financial information of consumer information

held by financial agencies.