encryption

American  

[en-krip-shuhn] / ɛnˈkrɪp ʃən /

noun

1. the act or practice of converting messages into cipher or code.

   During World War II, the encryption process involved code tables and a machine.

2. 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.

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encryption Cultural  

1. 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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Etymology

Origin of encryption

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

Example Sentences

Some providers offering free or low-cost services may skimp on encryption or log your activity.

From Salon

A firm considered one of the leading global voices in encryption has cancelled the announcement of its leadership election results after an official lost the encrypted key needed to unlock them.

From BBC

"The theory of how to break current forms of public key encryption await a truly operational quantum computer," he adds.

From BBC

Imagine a supercomputer millions or trillions of times more powerful than the most advanced technology today, capable of both discovering life-saving drugs and instantly hacking all digital encryption.

From MarketWatch

But the PM denied it would ever be used as a surveillance tool - and said the personal data which would have to be involved in creating it would "absolutely have very strong encryption".

From BBC