[Caleb Kiser]

Cryptography is a vital part of modern cybersecurity because it protects data from being accessed, altered, or stolen by unauthorized users. It works by converting plain information into an unreadable format that can only be decoded by someone with the correct key. This ensures the confidentiality, integrity, and authenticity of data both in storage and during transmission. Cryptography is used in many everyday applications like securing online banking, protecting passwords, encrypting emails, and verifying digital signatures. It also helps organizations comply with data protection laws and maintain customer trust. By preventing tampering and ensuring that data remains unchanged from its original form, cryptography helps guarantee that information is accurate and reliable. Overall, it serves as a cornerstone of data security, making sure sensitive information stays private and trustworthy in a digital world.