What is the primary benefit of using encryption for data communication?

The primary benefit of using encryption for data communication is enhanced data security. Encryption transforms data into a format that is unreadable to unauthorized users, thereby protecting it from interception and unauthorized access during transmission. It ensures that even if data is intercepted, it cannot be understood without the appropriate decryption key. This is critical in safeguarding sensitive information, such as personal data, financial transactions, and confidential communications, against cyber threats and breaches. By securing data during transit, encryption builds trust and confidentiality, making it an essential practice in modern data communication strategies.