Encryption and data protection – UGC NET Question

Statement C is the only wrong statement because symmetric-key encryption requires the same secret key at both ends, not different keys. A rightly states that encryption transforms plaintext into ciphertext using an algorithm and key, B is correct about protecting confidentiality in transit, and D reflects the use of encryption in secure web protocols such as those used for online payments. Therefore the combination that selects only C as wrong is the correct answer.

Option A:
Option A is incorrect because it treats both B and C as wrong. B accurately describes the role of encryption in protecting confidentiality during transmission, so grouping it with the false statement C misidentifies a true property as wrong. This option therefore overstates the set of wrong statements.

Option B:
Option B is correct as it isolates C, which mischaracterises symmetric-key encryption as using different keys. By recognising that A, B and D are standard descriptions of encryption and that only C is false, this option precisely matches the requirement to select the wrong statement(s).

Option C:
Option C is incorrect because it considers A and C together as wrong. A is a fundamental definition of encryption, so including it among wrong statements contradicts basic ICT knowledge. Mixing one false statement with one true statement makes this combination invalid.

Option D:
Option D is incorrect because it treats C and D as wrong even though D correctly notes that secure web protocols rely on encryption. Since only C is wrong, adding D expands the set of wrong statements beyond what the question requires.