Ciphertext

In cryptography, ciphertext (or cyphertext) refers to the output of the encryption process. Plaintext is turned into ciphertext using an algorithm (cipher). This makes it unreadable to anyone except those who own unique information about it, usually referred to as a key.

Decryption is the reverse process of encryption. It takes the unreadable ciphertext as an input and makes it readable again in the form of plaintext.

Ciphertext Media

• Zimmermann Telegram.jpeg

  The Zimmermann Telegram (as it was sent from Washington to Mexico in 1917) encrypted as ciphertext.

• Hollow Nickel Message.jpg

  KGB ciphertext found in a hollow nickel in Brooklyn in 1953

• Zimmermann-telegramm-offen.jpg

  The Zimmermann Telegram decrypted into plaintext (and translated into English).

• Shugborough inscription.jpg

  The Shugborough inscription, England

Other websites

• Ciphertext -Citizendium