Which of the following best describes encryption?

• A. A method for backing up data to the cloud.
• B. The process of encoding data so anyone can read it easily.
• C. The process of encoding data so only authorized parties can read it; protects confidentiality and integrity.
• D. A technique to compress data to save space.

Answer: (C)

Encryption transforms plain data into an unreadable form using a cryptographic algorithm and a key, so only someone with the correct key can restore it to readable form. This mainly protects confidentiality, keeping the content hidden from unauthorized readers even if the data is intercepted. Many modern schemes also provide integrity when combined with authentication methods, so tampering can be detected and the sender’s identity can be verified. It’s different from simply backing up data or compressing it, which don’t inherently hide or protect the content. This combination of restricting access and, when used with the right tools, detecting changes makes the description align with encryption.