Primary definition
Key used to encrypt plain text or to superencrypt previously encrypted text and/or to decrypt cipher text. (CNSSI-4009)
Also known asTEK · Traffic Key · Encryption Key
1 sources cited4 related termsReviewed Aug 10, 2026
— The Cyber GlossaryView source
Understand more election terms clearly
Get one important election term explained each week, with authoritative sources, practical context and related definitions.
Free. One useful email each week. Unsubscribe anytime.Learn more about the ESG newsletter →
TCG
Key used to encrypt plain text or to superencrypt previously encrypted text and/or to decrypt cipher text. (CNSSI-4009)
The Cyber Glossary · 2024
Cite this term
Permanent URL · stable across revisions
Election Security Glossary. (2026). Traffic Encryption Key (tek). In Election Security Glossary. Retrieved August 22, 2026, from https://electionsecurityglossary.com/glossary/traffic-encryption-key-tek
Sources
1 cited · last checked Aug 10, 2026
01
The Cyber Glossary
The Cyber Glossary
Single-source
Get the weekly election term
Receive one cited, source-backed election explanation in your inbox each week.
Get election terms explained weekly →
Free · Nonpartisan · Unsubscribe anytime.