Definition
Plain language
The encryption that puts the lock icon in your browser and keeps web traffic private.
As stated in the literature
Transport Layer Security, the protocol that encrypts and authenticates network connections; agents that disable TLS verification expose themselves to interception and tampering.
Also called: transport security
Why it matters: It keeps network traffic private and authentic, so an agent that turns off its checks exposes itself to interception and tampering.
For example, it's what encrypts your connection to a bank's website so eavesdroppers can't read your password.