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Client-controlled keys prevent provider plaintext access.

Definition

Zero‑knowledge encryption relies on client-side encryption and key management where decryption keys are never available to the service provider, keeping provider access limited to ciphertext.

In plain English Client-controlled keys prevent provider plaintext access.

Why this matters

Why it matters: It reduces insider and server-side compromise impact and narrows legal/operational access paths.

Example

Example: Client-side AES encryption with keys derived from user secrets and never sent to the server.