For encrypting sensitive user data, such as credit card details, which approach is most appropriate?

Choosing property level encryption for sensitive user data, such as credit card details, is particularly appropriate because it allows for targeted encryption at the individual data property level. This means that only the specific fields containing the sensitive information are encrypted, thereby providing a focused approach to data security without the overhead of encrypting more data than necessary.

This approach enables granular control over which data is sensitive and requires protection, while still allowing other properties within the same data structure to remain accessible in an unencrypted format. It enhances security by ensuring that sensitive information is encrypted both at rest and in transit, reducing risks associated with data breaches.

Additionally, property level encryption often comes with useful features such as key management and the ability to easily update or revoke access to sensitive information as needed. This flexibility is critical in scenarios where compliance with regulations—such as PCI DSS for credit card information—is necessary, as it ensures that only authorized users can access or decrypt sensitive data.

In contrast, the other solutions may not provide the same level of precision. Class, database, and application level encryption each introduce broader scopes of encryption, which can lead to unnecessary complexity and potential performance issues while accessing non-sensitive data. Such approaches may also increase the risk of exposure if encryption keys are compromised, as they