Cryptanalysis

Cryptanalysis is the study and practice of breaking codes and ciphers that protect information. It involves analyzing encrypted data to discover the original message or secret without access to the key used for encryption. In theoretical computer science, cryptanalysis explores the mathematical foundations and algorithms that underlie cryptographic systems, assessing their strengths and vulnerabilities. This field is crucial for ensuring data security, as it helps identify potential weaknesses in encryption methods and informs the development of stronger ones, ultimately protecting sensitive information in digital communications.