In one sentence: Encryption scrambles information with a secret key, so only someone with the right key can read it.
Why it matters: Think of locking a letter in a box. Anyone can carry the box, but only the person with the key can open it. Most information sent over the internet is encrypted, and most smartphones are protected by encryption too, for example through your passcode.
One thing to do: Make sure your phone has a passcode, so stored data stays protected if the phone is lost.
Related terms: password manager, VPN, data retention
Learn more: What Is a Password Manager, and How Do You Choose One?; The 30-Minute Account Clean-Up
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