Which encryption method is used primarily for securing emails?

Prepare for the EC-Council Certified Secure Computer User Test with interactive flashcards and targeted questions. Gain insights with each answer and boost your exam readiness!

The primary method used for securing emails is PGP, which stands for Pretty Good Privacy. PGP is particularly popular for email encryption because it provides a high level of security through a combination of hashing, data compression, and public-key cryptography.

When using PGP, a user's public key is available for others to encrypt messages specifically for that user, while the private key remains confidential and is needed to decrypt those messages. This ensures that only the intended recipient can read the contents of the email, thus maintaining confidentiality.

In addition, PGP allows for digital signatures, which help verify the sender's identity and ensure the integrity of the message, making it a suitable choice for secure email communication. Its widespread acceptance and usability over various email platforms also contribute to its designation as a primary encryption method for emails.

While S/MIME is specifically designed for secure email communication and is also widely used, PGP's flexibility and function make it well-known in the context of securing email. DES and RSA, on the other hand, are encryption algorithms used for securing data but are not primarily associated with email security. DES is a symmetric key algorithm, and RSA is a public-key cryptosystem; both can be components of email security systems but do not serve

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy