What does authenticity refer to in the context of records?

Authenticity in the context of records primarily refers to the assurance that a record is what it claims to be. This means that the record can be verified as genuine, trustworthy, and reliable in terms of its content and provenance. Authenticity is crucial for assessing the integrity of records, especially when it comes to legal, historical, and operational contexts. Establishing authenticity often involves examining the origin of the record, the method of creation, and whether there have been any alterations since its creation.

The significance of authenticity lies in its role in maintaining the credibility of the record within an archival or digital environment. When users or stakeholders engage with records, they need to trust that the information presented is accurate and unaltered, which is why establishing authenticity is a fundamental aspect of record-keeping practices.

In contrast, while accessibility over the web, secure storage, and certification of documents are important characteristics of records, they do not specifically address the critical aspect of authenticity that confirms a record's legitimacy. Thus, the focus on what a record is and how it can be validated is the essence of understanding authenticity in archival theory and practice.