Secure by design is a principle that emphasizes the importance of incorporating security into the design of a product or system from the outset, rather than trying to add it after the fact. The idea behind secure by design is that it is much easier and more effective to build security into a product or system from the start rather than trying to retroactively add it later.

There are several key elements to the secure by design principle:

1. Security considerations are integrated into the design process: Security is not an afterthought, but rather is considered throughout the design process.
   
   

2. Security is built into the product or system: Security controls are implemented as part of the product or system, rather than being added on later.
   
   

3. Security is tested throughout the development process: The product or system is regularly tested for vulnerabilities throughout the development process to ensure that it is secure.
   
   

4. Security is continuously improved: The product or system is continuously monitored for vulnerabilities and improvements are made as needed to ensure its ongoing security.

By following the secure by design principle, organizations can ensure that their products and systems are secure from the outset and are less likely to be vulnerable to attacks or breaches.