The public key is intended to be shared openly, while the private key is kept secret.

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Not Sure
• D. Not Applicable

Answer: (A)

Public-key cryptography uses an asymmetric key pair where the public key is designed to be shared openly and the private key is kept secret. This separation lets anyone encrypt data or verify a signature with the public key, while only the private key holder can decrypt the data or create a valid signature. Keeping the private key secret is essential for maintaining confidentiality and authenticity; if it were exposed, the attacker could decrypt messages and forge signatures. So, the statement is true: the public key is shared, the private key remains confidential.