Which method can be employed to ensure passwords are securely stored?

The method of encrypting passwords offers a robust approach to protecting sensitive data. When passwords are encrypted, they are transformed into a coded format that can only be reverse-engineered with the appropriate decryption key. This means even if an unauthorized entity gains access to the data, they cannot easily read or use the passwords without the decryption mechanism.

Encrypting passwords enhances security because it adds a layer of protection beyond simply storing them in a readable format. The process of encryption is specifically designed to secure data, making it highly effective against various attack vectors that aim to compromise password security.

In contrast, storing passwords in plain text is a significant vulnerability, as anyone with access to the storage medium can read them directly. Hashing passwords without salting also poses risks; while hashing generates a fixed-size output from the input data, it’s susceptible to attacks (like rainbow table attacks) if identical passwords produce the same hash output. Storing passwords in a database does not, by itself, ensure security unless combined with other protective measures like encryption or hashing.

Thus, encrypting passwords is the best practice for ensuring that they are securely stored, safeguarding them against potential breaches.