Which best describes the term "ciphertext"?

Ciphertext refers to data that has been transformed through encryption, rendering it unreadable without the appropriate decryption key. This transformation is crucial for protecting sensitive information during transmission or storage, as it ensures that even if unauthorized entities gain access to the data, they will not be able to understand it.

In essence, ciphertext is the product of an encryption algorithm applied to plaintext (the original, readable data). The purpose of creating ciphertext is to safeguard the confidentiality of the original information, making it accessible only to individuals who possess the decryption key or method required to revert it back to its intelligible form. This is a fundamental concept in cybersecurity, as it underpins the effectiveness of encryption as a protective measure against data breaches and unauthorized access.