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 fordef 2; encrypt ( def ) + -ion ( def )

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Example Sentences

Examples have not been reviewed.

The defense secretary's repeated use of third-party encryption apps to share sensitive information in defiance of DoD policy has cast an unflattering spotlight on his short tenure.

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"When you send messages to your friend, end to end encryption will not be affected," he said.

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While Signal is encrypted from end to end, all you have to do is take screenshots of the conversations to bypass the encryption protocols.

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She cited guidance from the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, which mentioned Signal as an example of a messaging service with end-to-end encryption.

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Signal is a free app that cybersecurity experts consider to be one of the most secure messaging services because of its end-to-end encryption.

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encrypt enculturate

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