encryption

[en-krip-shuhn]

Phonetic (Standard)IPA

noun

the act or practice of converting messages into cipher or code.
During World War II, the encryption process involved code tables and a machine.
Computers.��the act or practice of changing digital data into a form that cannot be read without converting it back using a unique key.
Though its data encryption is strong, the app has other security flaws exploited by hackers.

encryption

The process of encoding a message so that it can be read only by the sender and the intended recipient. Encryption systems often use two keys, a public key, available to anyone, and a private key that allows only the recipient to decode the message. (See also cryptography.)

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Word History and Origins

Origin of encryption¹

First recorded in 1940–45; 1960–65 encryption for def. 2; encrypt ( def. ) + -ion ( def. )

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Example Sentences

Examples have not been reviewed.

The messaging app's boss, Will Cathcart, said the case "could set a dangerous precedent" by "emboldening other nations" to seek to break encryption, which is how tech firms keep their users' data private.

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Court documents suggest the two men discussed ways of exporting a device that could be used for encryption and decryption.

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"DragonForce's latest model includes features such as administration and client panels, encryption and ransomware negotiation tools, and more," Ms Baumgaertner said.

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They allegedly used phones with military-grade encryption software, including the Signal messaging app; and fake names, businesses and email accounts to ship the drugs disguised as commercial products.

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Ms Buckley also highlighted the evolving nature of ransomware threats, warning of the rise of "ransomware as a service" models that combine data theft with system encryption, increasing the pressure on victims to pay ransoms.

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encrypt enculturate

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