Encryption can be used to achieve which of the following security services on…

Concept

Encryption transforms plaintext into ciphertext under a cryptographic key.

Its direct security purpose is to restrict intelligible access to parties that possess the authorized decryption capability.

Application

The phrase “on its own” asks which service follows directly from making data unreadable to unauthorized parties. That service is confidentiality.

Contrast

• Confidentiality limits unauthorized disclosure; ciphertext provides this protection when the decryption key remains controlled.

• Data integrity requires a mechanism that detects modification, such as a MAC or digital signature; encryption alone is not a modification check.

• Authentication requires evidence of identity or data origin; encryption alone does not establish who created or sent the data.

• Non-repudiation requires durable evidence linking an action to a party, usually through digital signatures and supporting key management.

Cross-check and result

An attacker can alter ciphertext even when unable to read it, showing that secrecy alone does not guarantee integrity, authentication, or non-repudiation. Therefore, encryption on its own provides confidentiality.