What are credentials used for in cybersecurity?

Credentials are primarily used in cybersecurity to verify a user’s identity, ensuring that individuals attempting to access systems or sensitive data are who they claim to be. This verification process is crucial for maintaining the security of systems and safeguarding against unauthorized access, fraud, and identity theft.

When users log into a system, they typically provide credentials such as usernames and passwords, biometrics, or security tokens. The system then checks these credentials against its records to grant or deny access. This process is fundamental in implementing access control mechanisms, which are essential in cybersecurity to protect data and resources.

The other options highlight important cybersecurity functions but do not pertain directly to the definition and purpose of credentials. Data encryption is typically performed after a user’s identity has been confirmed, and detecting malware activity and monitoring network traffic both involve analyzing system behavior and data flow rather than verifying identities. Thus, credentials play a critical role in establishing trust and ensuring that only authorized users can access specific information and systems.