How does encryption function as a security control?

Encryption functions as a security control primarily by encoding data during internet transmission. This process transforms the original data into a coded format that can only be decrypted by entities that possess the appropriate key or password. The primary purpose of encryption is to protect the confidentiality and integrity of information as it travels over networks, making it significantly more difficult for unauthorized users to access or understand the data.

When data is transmitted over the internet without encryption, it is vulnerable to interception by malicious actors who can easily read and manipulate the information. By employing encryption protocols, such as SSL/TLS, data in transit is secured, thereby ensuring that even if it is intercepted, it remains unintelligible without the decryption key.

This focus on protecting data during transmission is critical in various applications, including online banking, e-commerce transactions, and private communications, highlighting encryption’s vital role in maintaining data security in a digital environment.