What threat does encryption primarily mitigate in network communications? a) Man-in-the-middle attacks b) SQL injection c) Phishing d) Insider threats

Encryption primarily mitigates **a) Man-in-the-middle attacks**. By encrypting the data being transmitted over the network, even if a malicious actor intercepts the communication, they would not be able to read or alter the information without the decryption key. While encryption can also contribute to mitigating risks related to phishing and insider threats to some extent, its primary function is to protect data confidentiality and integrity from interception and unauthorized access, which is most directly relevant to man-in-the-middle attacks.