What does the term 'ciphertext' imply about the integrity of communication?

The term 'ciphertext' refers to the result of encryption, which transforms readable data, known as plaintext, into an unreadable format to protect its confidentiality. When data is converted to ciphertext, it is designed to be unintelligible and cannot be easily deciphered without the proper decryption key or method. This transformation ensures that even if intercepted, the data remains secure and private, thereby maintaining the confidentiality of the information being communicated.

In secure communication, the existence of ciphertext is fundamental because it indicates that the data is protected from unauthorized access and retains its secrecy, which is critical for ensuring integrity in communication. The other options do not accurately reflect what ciphertext represents in terms of information security.