What is the main goal of data encryption?

The main goal of data encryption is to ensure data confidentiality. Encryption transforms data into a format that is unreadable to anyone who does not possess the appropriate decryption key. This process protects sensitive information from unauthorized access, making it crucial for safeguarding personal data, financial information, and other confidential material. By ensuring that only authorized users can decode and read the data, encryption plays a vital role in maintaining privacy and security, particularly in an environment increasingly susceptible to cyber threats.

The focus on confidentiality means that even if data is intercepted or accessed by unauthorized individuals, they would not be able to decipher the information without the correct keys. This is why encryption is fundamental for organizations handling sensitive data and for complying with various privacy regulations. The other options, while related to data handling, do not align with the primary function of encryption as a protective measure for confidentiality.