Cryptanalysis

/ˌkrɪp.təˈnæl.ə.sɪs/ noun

Definition

The practice of breaking secret codes and encrypted messages without knowing the original key or cipher method.

Etymology

From Greek 'kryptos' (hidden) + 'analysis' (breaking down), formalized as a term in the early 20th century during wartime codebreaking efforts.

Kelly Says

Cryptanalysis during World War II—especially breaking the Enigma code—may have shortened the war by years and literally changed history; today it's the mathematical foundation protecting your passwords and bank data.

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