Encryption protocols secure internet communications by encoding data to protect it from unauthorized access. These protocols, such as SSL/TLS, establish secure connections between clients and servers, ensuring data integrity and confidentiality during transmission. When data is encrypted, it remains unreadable to anyone without the appropriate decryption key, safeguarding sensitive information like financial transactions or personal data. These protocols play a vital role in maintaining trust and security in online interactions, particularly in areas like e-commerce and communication.