Why are encrypted transfer protocols used for file transfers?

• A. To speed up transfers
• B. To protect data from interception during transmission
• C. To reduce server load
• D. To log transfers for auditing

Answer: (B)

Encrypted transfer protocols protect data in transit by making the information unreadable to anyone who intercepts it while it’s traveling between systems. When you move files over a network, their packets can pass through many devices on potentially untrusted paths. Encryption encodes the file contents so that even if someone captures the traffic, they can’t read the data without the decryption key. Many encrypted protocols also verify who you’re communicating with and ensure the data isn’t altered, guarding against tampering and impersonation. That’s why encrypted transfers are used for file transfers: to safeguard confidentiality and integrity during transmission. The other options don’t capture the main purpose—encryption isn’t primarily about speeding up transfers, reducing server load, or logging for auditing.