What is the function of a digital certificate in cybersecurity?

The correct answer highlights the primary function of a digital certificate, which is to verify the ownership of a public key. In cybersecurity, digital certificates are issued by trusted entities known as Certificate Authorities (CAs). These certificates bind a public key to the identity of an individual, organization, or device, establishing trust by confirming that the public key belongs to the claimed owner.

When a user receives a digital certificate, they can ensure that the public key contained within it has not been tampered with and that it indeed belongs to the entity it claims to represent. This capability is fundamental in establishing secure communications over networks, such as during SSL/TLS handshakes, where the authenticity of the public key is critical for creating a secure connection.

The other options present different functions that do not align with the main purpose of a digital certificate, which makes it clear that option C is the most accurate description of its role in cybersecurity.