What is a potential consequence of not encrypting data during conversion?

Not encrypting data during conversion significantly increases the risk of data breaches. When sensitive information is not protected by encryption, it becomes vulnerable to interception and unauthorized access. During the conversion process, data is often transferred and processed, which opens multiple points of exposure. Cybercriminals can exploit these vulnerabilities to gain access to confidential information, leading to identity theft, financial loss, and damage to an organization's reputation.

In contrast, the other options focus on outcomes that are not directly related to the lack of encryption. For example, while faster conversion might seem like a benefit, it does not address the security implications and could mislead one into thinking that speed outweighs the importance of protecting sensitive data. Higher operational costs might arise from not using encryption, but that primarily relates to potential remediation efforts after a breach rather than an immediate consequence of the lack of encryption. Similarly, reduced data accessibility might seem like a side effect of encryption practices rather than a direct consequence of not encrypting data during conversion. Overall, the core issue is that without encryption, sensitive data is left exposed, making it susceptible to breaches and attacks.