What is encrypted communication?

Encrypted communication refers to the use of encryption techniques to secure messages, ensuring that they remain confidential and are protected against unauthorized access during transmission. When information is encrypted, it is transformed into a coded format that can only be read or understood by someone who possesses the appropriate decryption key. This security measure is particularly important in scenarios where sensitive data is being communicated, as it protects the content from interception by unauthorized parties.

This process ensures that even if a message is intercepted while traveling over a network, the contents remain obscured and secure from prying eyes. Therefore, option B accurately captures the essence of what encrypted communication entails—using encryption to secure messages to maintain confidentiality and integrity during transmission.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately depict encrypted communication. Unprotected messages transmitted over the internet would imply a lack of security, while methods of preventing unauthorized access to a network focus on broader network security and do not specifically address message confidentiality. Lastly, describing malware that can moderate message contents does not pertain to the concept of encrypted communication, which is primarily about securing data during transit rather than malicious interference.