Description: Malleability in cryptography refers to a property of certain encryption algorithms that allows an attacker to modify an encrypted text without needing to know the secret key. This means that by altering the encrypted text, the attacker can generate a modified encrypted text that, when decrypted, produces a predictable or desired result. This characteristic is particularly concerning in systems where data integrity is crucial, as it allows an attacker to manipulate information without being detected. Malleability can be seen as an inherent vulnerability in certain encryption schemes, highlighting the importance of choosing algorithms that not only protect the confidentiality of data but also ensure its integrity. Generally, encryption algorithms that are malleable can be used in substitution attacks, where an attacker can change parts of the encrypted message to alter the decrypted message in a way that aligns with their malicious intentions. Therefore, malleability is a critical concept in the design and evaluation of cryptographic systems, as it directly affects the trust in the security of transmitted or stored information.
