Which is a key benefit of data encryption on portable devices?

Data encryption on portable devices is primarily aimed at safeguarding sensitive information by transforming it into a format that is unreadable to unauthorized individuals, even if they gain physical access to the device. This ensures that, should a device be lost or stolen, the encrypted data remains protected, contributing significantly to the security of personal and sensitive information.

Additionally, encryption serves to comply with regulatory requirements, such as those set forth by HIPAA, which emphasize the need for protecting health-related information. By using strong encryption methods, organizations can ensure that they are taking the necessary steps to prevent data breaches and protect patient privacy.

The other options do not align with the primary benefits of data encryption. For example, while easy access without authentication may seem convenient, it directly undermines security. Simplifying data sharing might be a consideration of some encryption methods, but it is not a primary benefit when weighing the security implications. Lastly, the notion that encryption requires less storage space is incorrect, as encryption processes typically result in increased data size due to the additional information required for decryption. Thus, the key benefit of data encryption is its capability to prevent unauthorized access to sensitive information.