What is the presumption regarding Point-to-Point Encryption (P2PE)?

The presumption regarding Point-to-Point Encryption (P2PE) is that the data cannot be decrypted between the source and destination. This means that once the data is encrypted at the point of entry (for example, a card reader or payment terminal), it remains encrypted throughout its journey across the network until it reaches the intended destination, such as a secure payment processor.

This theory is foundational to the P2PE concept, which seeks to protect sensitive cardholder data during transmission. By ensuring that the data remains encrypted and cannot be accessed in its plaintext form while in transit, P2PE significantly mitigates the risk of interception and unauthorized access. This feature is particularly important in maintaining the security and integrity of payment transactions, as it prevents potential attackers from being able to read or manipulate sensitive information as it travels through various networks.

The other choices contribute different perspectives that do not accurately describe the scope of P2PE. Decryption during transmission would imply a vulnerability that P2PE specifically aims to eliminate. Secure storage is not inherent to the transmission process of P2PE. The concept of encryption at the source only neglects the comprehensive encryption throughout the entire transmission pathway.