What does HTTPS ensure for data transmitted over the web?

HTTPS, which stands for HyperText Transfer Protocol Secure, is a protocol used for secure communication over a computer network. When data is transmitted over the web using HTTPS, it ensures that the data is encrypted. This means that even if the data is intercepted during transmission, the information cannot be read without the proper decryption key. This encryption protects the privacy of the data being exchanged between the user's browser and the server.

Additionally, HTTPS helps in maintaining data integrity. This aspect ensures that the data sent and received has not been altered or corrupted during transmission. Any unauthorized changes to the data can be detected, which adds an extra layer of security to the communication.

Options that mention faster loading times, enhanced social media marketing capabilities, or increased visibility in search engine results do not accurately describe the primary function of HTTPS. Instead, they refer to aspects related to website performance, marketing strategies, or search engine optimization, which are unrelated to the security provided by HTTPS. The core features of HTTPS focus on the secure and encrypted transmission of data, making the choice of data encryption for privacy and integrity the most accurate.