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What is Encryption?
Encryption scrambles information so only someone with the right key can read it.
- Category Safety & law
- Also called encrypted, end-to-end encryption
- Updated 20 Oct 2026
Encryption, explained simply
Encryption turns readable data into a jumble. Only a person with the correct key can turn it back.
It protects you every day. It keeps your passwords, messages and card details safe when they travel online or sit on a device.
With end-to-end encryption, only you and the person you message can read it. Even the app's company can't.
On ITG Now, our free tool guides and news stories sometimes say whether a tool encrypts your data.
Related terms
API keyMalwareVulnerabilitySelf-hostingGDPR
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Questions people ask about Encryption
Is encryption unbreakable?
Strong encryption is very hard to break. Most problems come from weak passwords, stolen keys or bugs, not the math.
What is end-to-end encryption?
It means only the sender and receiver can read a message. Nobody in the middle can, including the service.
Does encryption make my AI chats private?
Not necessarily. Encryption protects data in travel, but the AI company may still read or store your chats. Check its privacy settings.