Introduction to Encryption
Encryption is a method of converting plain text into an unreadable format to protect
information from unauthorized access. It plays a critical role in securing data during
transmission and storage.
Key Terms in Encryption
1. Plain Text
Plain text refers to the original, readable text or data before it undergoes encryption.
Example: "Hello, how are you?"
2. Cipher Text
Cipher text is the encrypted version of plain text that is unreadable without
decryption.
Example: "JgNNq" (after encryption)
3. Encryption Key
An encryption key is a string of characters used to transform plain text into cipher
text.
It determines how the encryption algorithm processes the plain text.
4. Decryption
Decryption is the process of converting cipher text back into plain text using a
decryption key.
It ensures that only authorized parties can access the original message.
Illustration of How Plain Text is Converted into Cipher
Text
Below is a simple diagram showing the encryption process:
Importance of Encryption
Encryption is essential in securing data, ensuring privacy, and maintaining integrity. Below
are some key benefits:
1. Securing Data During Transmission
Encryption prevents unauthorized users from intercepting and reading sensitive data
during communication.
Example: When you send an email, encryption ensures that only the recipient can read
it.
2. Protection in Online Transactions
Online Banking: Encryption secures sensitive financial information like credit card
details and passwords.
Social Media: Platforms use encryption to protect messages and user data from
hackers.
3. Ensuring Privacy and Integrity
Privacy: Prevents unauthorized access to personal information.
Integrity: Ensures that data is not altered during transmission.
Demonstration: Simple Encryption Algorithm
A simple encryption algorithm students can try is the Caesar Cipher, which shifts letters in
the alphabet by a fixed number of places.
Example:
Step 1: Choose a shift key (e.g., Shift by 2).
Step 2: Convert each letter by shifting forward in the alphabet.
o A → C, B → D, C → E, etc.
Step 3: The new text is the encrypted version.
Encrypting "CAT":
C→E
A→C
T→V
Cipher Text: "ECV"
To decrypt, shift backward by the same key.
Pair Activity: Encryption and Decryption
1. Students pair up and write a short message in plain text.
2. They apply the same encryption algorithm (e.g., Shift by 3) to convert it into cipher
text.
3. Exchange encrypted messages with their partner.
4. Each student decrypts the received message using the shift key.
5. Compare results to ensure accuracy.
Conclusion
Encryption is a vital security measure used in various fields such as communication, banking,
and online transactions. Understanding encryption helps in protecting sensitive information
and ensuring privacy.
Assessment Questions
1. Define the following terms:
o Plain Text
o Cipher Text
o Encryption Key
o Decryption
2. Why is encryption important in online banking?
3. Encrypt the word "DOG" using a shift cipher of 4.
4. Decrypt the cipher text "JMP" using a shift cipher of 3.
5. Explain the role of an encryption key in data security.
