encryption

Definition: Computation which takes a message or data and turns that into a ciphertext that looks like or comes out as gibberish: the encryption uses a key or password, therefore, in order for the message or data to be read back i.e. decrypted, the recipient of the ciphertext must possess the key or password.
Not all cryptic
Encryption should not to be confused with the unlocking of computers or application programs using a password since in these situations, the computer or software aren't themselves encrypted - they just won't open without a password.

Related Terms: fingerprint

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