What is the function of digital signatures?

Digital signatures play a crucial role in cybersecurity and digital communications by verifying authenticity and integrity. When a digital signature is applied to a message or document, it creates a unique cryptographic code that is tied to the content and the signer’s identity. This ensures that the recipient can confirm both who sent the message (authenticity) and that the message has not been altered during transmission (integrity).

If the content were changed after signing, the digital signature would no longer match, alerting the recipient to potential tampering. This functionality is fundamental in establishing trust in digital interactions, particularly in legal and financial transactions.

The other options do not relate to the specific purpose of digital signatures. Compressing file sizes pertains to reducing data storage needs, facilitating faster data transfer involves speeding up the transmission of data, and encrypting sensitive files is about securing data from unauthorized access. None of these functions relate to the dual purpose of verifying authenticity and integrity that digital signatures provide.