Computer Security Vocabulary

noun a secret or disguised way of writing; a code

verb to put (a message) into secret writing; encode

• The intelligence agency used a complex cipher to encrypt classified information.
• I can't figure out this cipher puzzle, it's too hard!
• Yo, pass me the cipher so I can decode this message.
• His emotions were like a cipher, impossible to decipher.

noun a quick examination or survey of something

verb to look at or examine closely and quickly

• The doctor ordered a CT scan to get a detailed image of the patient's brain.
• I need to scan this document and email it to you.
• I'll just quickly scan through this book to see if there's anything interesting.
• She scanned the room for any signs of trouble before entering.