Data encryption is something that can be easily overlooked as just another industry buzzword, without any real bearing on our lives. But therein lies the problem. Data encryption is essential to protecting private/vulnerable information from falling into the wrong hands. It’s also used to verify that data comes from the promised source and provides details on any alterations to the original that may have been made along the way.
What is data encryption?
Data encryption is a process that involves converting data from a readable format into an encoded format. The encrypted information or document cannot be accessed, which makes it safe and secure from opportunists. Once the encrypted file is decrypted, the format will be readable once more.
The importance of data security
You might be wondering why you need data encryption for your computer and network security. Aren’t the programs and passwords in place enough? The simple answer is no.
Unfortunately, hackers and data thieves have become far smarter than we give them credit for. Nowadays, a hacker can get into your router and onto your computer in a matter of seconds. And once there, with unencrypted data readily available, they can wreak all kinds of havoc including:
- Identity theft by accessing your personal information.
- Credit card fraud, if your computer cache hasn’t been cleared and your card details are set to auto-fill when you shop online.
- Theft of vulnerable information. At home and in the office, you might have sensitive files stored. Perhaps it’s trade secrets that keep your business ahead of the rest, or it could just be pages of employee and family personal particulars. Either way, these types of data breaches can have devastating effects.
How does data encryption work
You might have a general idea about how data encryption works, but how does it really work? There are various types of coding methods used in the process of encryption. Here are just the very basics.
- Asymmetric Cryptography
This type of encryption mathematically links two keys together. The keys are public and private keys. To break it down into simpler terms; the keys are lengthy numbers that are paired together. The numbers are entirely different. You can share the public key with other people, but the private key is kept secret. Users can use either of the keys to encrypt a message, and the opposite key can decode the message/file.
- Symmetric Key Cipher
This is a single key provided to a recipient of the encrypted file. The key is used to return the file to a readable format. The same key is used for encrypting and decoding. This type of encryption is best suited to private users at home.
Data encryption is not just a buzzword. Hack attacks are not going to stop. In fact, they are only going to become more advanced and prevalent. To protect yourself from being a victim, protect your data and files with encryption.
Take a look at just how Soteria encrypts your data and learn more about online backups and how best to encrypt your personal data.