Provides auditable proof of compliance and legal defense is correct because keeping records of deletion actions archival steps and legal hold activities creates an evidence trail that auditors investigators and courts can rely on.

Keeping detailed records supports chain of custody and shows that the organization followed its retention and deletion policies. Such documentation helps demonstrate regulatory compliance and provides the factual basis needed for legal defense if a dispute or investigation arises.

Cloud Audit Logs is not the correct answer because it names a logging service rather than stating why records should be kept. The question asks for the purpose of retaining records and not for a specific tool.

Reduces operational staffing requirements is incorrect because maintaining and reviewing records typically requires staff effort and governance. Record keeping can improve efficiency in some processes but it does not inherently reduce staffing needs.

Guarantees there will be no data loss is also wrong because keeping records documents what happened and when but it cannot prevent or guarantee the absence of data loss. Logs and records provide evidence after events occur rather than eliminate all risk.

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