Which of the following scenarios would MOST likely require data encryption?

Data encryption is critical in scenarios where sensitive information may be exposed to unauthorized access or interception, and storing financial records is a prime example of such a scenario. Financial information, which can include transaction records, account details, and other sensitive data, is highly valuable and often targeted by malicious actors. Encrypting these records helps to protect them against breaches, ensuring that even if the data is accessed unlawfully, it remains unreadable without the proper decryption keys.

In contrast, accessing a public website, writing a research paper, or hosting public information does not typically involve handling sensitive data that necessitates encryption. Public websites are designed for open access, and hosting information that is not sensitive does not require the same level of protection. Therefore, these scenarios do not carry the same risks that financial records do, making encryption significantly less relevant.