Encryption is the process of converting information or data into a code to prevent unauthorized access. It ensures that only authorized parties can read the original content by using a specific key to encode and decode the message.
Characteristics:
– Protects sensitive information during transmission or storage
– Uses algorithms and keys to transform readable data into an unreadable format
– Requires a decryption key to revert the data back to its original form
– Commonly used in email communication, online banking, and secure messaging
Examples:
– SSL/TLS encryption securing emails sent through webmail services
– PGP (Pretty Good Privacy) encrypting email content to ensure privacy
– End-to-end encryption in messaging apps like Signal or WhatsApp
