Which of the following describes the effect of encryption on data?

The effect of encryption on data is accurately described as scrambling a message or information so that only authorized parties can access it. This process transforms the original readable data into an encoded format, making it unreadable to anyone who does not possess the appropriate decryption key. The primary purpose of encryption is to protect sensitive information from unauthorized access, ensuring confidentiality and integrity as it traverses networks or is stored on devices.

This security measure is vital in today's digital environment, where data breaches are a significant threat. By employing encryption, individuals and organizations can safeguard their communication and protect personal or proprietary information from being intercepted or misused. Only those with the right decryption key can revert the encrypted data back to its original, readable form, facilitating secure communication and safeguarding privacy.

Other options touch on different aspects of data handling and transmission but do not focus on the core function of encryption, which is to secure the confidentiality of information. Hence, the emphasis on scrambling data for authorized access specifically captures the essence of encryption's role in cybersecurity.