Which term protects digital content from being used without authorization?

• A. Masking
• B. Encryption
• C. Leading
• D. Star filter

Answer: (B)

Protecting digital content from unauthorized use hinges on encoding information so that only someone with the right key can read or access it. Encryption turns readable data into ciphertext that appears as random garble unless decrypted, which keeps content private whether it’s stored on a device or sent over a network. Masking hides parts of data but doesn’t prevent someone from using or reconstructing the underlying information, so it doesn’t offer the same level of protection. Leading is a typography term, and a star filter is a photographic effect—neither relates to safeguarding data. Encryption is the method that best ensures content remains unusable to anyone without authorization.