The "Create" phase is the very first stage in the cloud data lifecycle, where data is generated, captured, or modified. This represents the earliest possible point to implement security controls. Key controls such as data classification, labeling, and the application of Information Rights Management (IRM) are most effective when applied at the moment of creation. This initial classification dictates the security requirements for all subsequent phases (Store, Use, Share, etc.), ensuring that data is protected consistently throughout its entire lifecycle. Failing to apply controls at this stage means the data exists in an unprotected state, even if only for a short time.

A. Use: This phase occurs after data has already been created and stored; therefore, it is not the first opportunity for control implementation.

B. Share: Sharing or distributing data is a subsequent phase that happens after data is created, stored, and often used.

C. Store: Data must be created before it can be stored. While applying controls like encryption at rest is critical in this phase, it is not the first instance.

1. Cloud Security Alliance. (2017). Security Guidance for Critical Areas of Focus in Cloud Computing v4.0. Page 114

Domain 5: Cloud Data Security

Section "Data Security Lifecycle

" subsection "Create." The document states

"At this stage [Create]

the key security issue is data classification and labeling." This confirms that security controls are applied in the very first phase.

2. Mather

T.

Kumaraswamy

S.

& Latif

S. (2009). Cloud Security and Privacy: An Enterprise Perspective on Risks and Compliance. O'Reilly Media. Chapter 4

"The Cloud Computing Data Security Lifecycle

" page 62. The text explains that in the "Create" phase

"the primary security-related task is to classify the data." This establishes that security measures begin at data's inception.