This lesson explains what encryption is and why we use it. You will learn the key terms plaintext, ciphertext and key, the difference between symmetric and asymmetric (public and private key) encryption, and why encryption does not stop data being intercepted but does make intercepted data meaningless to an attacker.
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The purpose of encryption
Encryption is the process of scrambling data so that it cannot be understood if it is intercepted by an unauthorised person.
The purpose of encryption is to protect the confidentiality of sensitive data, such as passwords, bank details and private messages.
Encryption does not stop data being intercepted; it makes any intercepted data meaningless without the correct key.
Encryption is used whenever data is at risk, for example when it is sent across the internet or stored on a device that could be stolen.
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1. What is the correct name for the scrambled, unreadable data produced by encryption?
2. Which statement is true about symmetric encryption?
3. In asymmetric encryption, which key is used to encrypt a message being sent to a recipient?
4. Which statement best explains what encryption actually achieves?