- Encryption converts sensitive data into a secure code that only authorised parties can decipher, enhancing privacy and security.
- Evolving technologies, such as quantum-resistant encryption, are being developed to address future threats and ensure long-term data protection.
- Compliance with data protection regulations and maintaining consumer trust are key drivers for the widespread adoption of encryption technologies.
Organisations have three critical tools at their disposal to ensure strong cybersecurity: encryption, authentication and authorisation. Encryption is one of the most useful first layers to protect your data and remain cyber resilient.
In simple terms, encryption is the process of encoding data so that it remains hidden or inaccessible to unauthorised users. It helps protect private information, sensitive data and can improve the security of communications between client applications and servers. As we move forward, encryption will not only protect information, but will also play a critical role in regulatory compliance and maintaining public trust in technology.
What is encryption
Encryption is the process of converting data into an unreadable format using mathematical algorithms. In simple terms, this means that if someone tries to read encrypted data, they won’t be able to interpret what it says. The only way to decrypt the data is with a key – a secret number that is used to convert the encrypted data back into its original form.
Encryption takes place between two parties: the sender and the receiver. When sending sensitive data over public networks, such as the Internet, both parties must ensure that the data remains secure. For example, the sender and recipient can share a unique code called an asymmetric key. Once the sender has generated the key, they send it to the recipient, who uses it to decrypt the data.
How to encrypt data
The process itself is fairly straightforward: an encryption key uses an algorithm to translate (encode) plaintext, or readable data, into unreadable data, or ciphertext. Only the corresponding decryption key can decode the encrypted ciphertext back into readable plaintext.
What is the purpose of data encryption
The basic purpose of encryption is to protect sensitive information from being seen by those with unauthorised access. Encrypting communications helps you maintain data confidentiality during transmission and storage.
This is particularly important for people and organisations whose private information is particularly sensitive or confidential, such as banks, healthcare providers, military organisations, power and energy companies, and insurance companies.
Data encryption allows these types of organisations to store personal information in a secure way that does not compromise your identity. Individuals may also want to protect their information.
Encryption prevents your information from being tampered with. In a digital age where trust is lacking, encryption can give you greater confidence that the information you send and receive is authentic. Improving data integrity and authenticity is another key benefit of encryption.
Also read: Secure connect: Safeguarding data in a digital world
Also read: The pivotal role of IT compliance in securing your data
Why encryption is important for data security
Protect sensitive data: Encryption ensures that only authorised parties have access to sensitive information. This includes financial data, customer information, trade secrets and other sensitive information that organisations need to protect.
Comply with regulations and laws: Many industries are subject to unique privacy and security regulations and laws. Failure to comply with regulations and laws can result in penalties and reputational damage to the organisation. Many of these standards, such as HIPAA and GDPR, require encryption.
Building trust with customers: Customers expect organisations to protect their data and privacy. Encryption is one way to reassure customers that their privacy is a priority.
Prevent data breaches and cyber-attacks: Encryption makes it more difficult for cybercriminals to access sensitive data, even if they are able to breach an organisation’s networks. This reduces the likelihood of data breaches and cyber-attacks, which can have a devastating financial and reputational impact on organisations.
