Does encryption ensure the integrity of data?

Encryption does not ensure the integrity of data; it primarily provides confidentiality. When data is encrypted, it is transformed into a form that can only be read or processed by someone who has the correct decryption key. This process keeps the information secret from unauthorized users but does not confirm whether the data has been altered or tampered with in any way.

To ensure integrity—meaning that the data has not been changed or corrupted—methods such as hashing or digital signatures are typically used. These processes create a unique value based on the data's content, which can then be checked later to verify that the data remains unchanged. Therefore, while encryption plays a critical role in protecting data privacy, it does not address the concern of data integrity on its own.