How does encapsulation enhance security in OOP?

Encapsulation enhances security in object-oriented programming by restricting direct access to some components of an object. This principle involves bundling the data (attributes) and methods (functions) that manipulate that data into a single unit or class while controlling access to the internal state of that object.

Encapsulation is typically achieved using access modifiers, such as private, protected, and public. By declaring certain attributes or methods as private, for example, they cannot be accessed directly from outside the class. This means that the internal representation of an object is hidden from the outside, providing a layer of protection against unauthorized access or modification. As a result, it helps maintain the integrity of the data, prevents unintended interference, and provides a clearer interface for interaction.

This control over access not only enhances security but also promotes better maintainability and reduces the risk of error since changes to the internal workings of a class will not affect any external code that relies on the class, as long as the public interface remains consistent.