Answer:
Encryption is the process of converting plaintext or readable data into an encoded or encrypted format, which can only be accessed by authorized parties who have the decryption key or password.
Step-by-step explanation:
Encryption is often used to secure sensitive information, such as financial data, personal information, and confidential business data, from unauthorized access or interception by third parties. There are various encryption algorithms and methods, including symmetric encryption, asymmetric encryption, and hashing, which use mathematical formulas and cryptographic keys to convert plaintext into ciphertext. Encryption is widely used in various fields, including cybersecurity, e-commerce, data storage, and communication, to ensure data privacy and security.