Are you Effectively Using Encryption?

With the rapidly expanding threat matrix, encryption is more important than ever because it converts readable data into secret code. Only the right key can decode it, so if hackers manage to steal your data, they can’t read it. It’s an essential component of effective cybersecurity.

This guide will help you ‘up’ your defensive game by demonstrating different encryption methods.

What do you mean by encryption?

Basically, encryption is a code, like a secret language. It converts regular text into unreadable text called ciphertext. Only people who have the right key will be able to convert it into normal text, called plaintext. It’s like the German Enigma machines in WWII which produced uncrackable codes until the Allies got hold of one of the machines (and even then, it wasn’t easy).

What does encryption protect you against?

Encryption is used to keep your information safe and away from prying eyes. It makes our data safe from hackers which is very important for privacy and security.

How does encryption work?

We are a long way from the Ken Follett novel ‘The Key to Rebecca,’ wherein a spy deciphers messages hidden in the text of the Daphne du Maurier novel ‘Rebecca’ by using a ‘key’ which told him where to find the words that would make up the secret message.

In the modern era, encryption uses algorithms and keys. An algorithm is a set of rules for solving problems. A key is somewhat like a password that unlocks the secret message.

Two Encryption types: Symmetric and Asymmetric

These are the two main types of encryption: symmetric and asymmetric, and they are what they sound like.

Using the same key for encryption and decryption is how symmetric encryption works. The same key is shared between the sender and receiver. It’s faster, but less secure when the key is shared.

The use of two separate keys signifies asymmetric encryption: a public key and a private key. A public key can encrypt a message, while a private key can decrypt it. It’s more secure since only the private key unlocks the message.

How do you encrypt things?

These days, there are number of encryption methods available. The most common:

Data Encryption Standard (DES)

This was once a popular symmetric encryption method. While it is still used, it’s long in the tooth these days. It uses a 56-bit key, which is now considered underpowered and weak. DES has mostly been replaced by AES (below)

Advanced Encryption Standard (AES)

One of the most secure forms of encryption, AES is symmetric. It can have 128, 192, or 256-bit keys. Understandably, the longer the key, the harder it is to break, which is why it’s better to use than DES.

Rivest-Shamir-Adleman (RSA)

This one is an asymmetric encryption method. It uses two keys: a public and a private key. RSA is widely used for secure data transmission.

Elliptic Curve Cryptography (ECC)

ECC is on the rise as an encryption technique. It is asymmetric and offers better security and more compact key sizes. It is efficient and widely adopted in various mobile gadgets.

How is encryption used in everyday life?

It’s used more often than one would think. Encryption plays a major role in our daily life routines.

Messaging Apps

Some messaging apps, like WhatsApp, use encryption to keep your messages private. Only you and the person you are chatting with can read them. Check out if this is part of any new messaging app you’re considering.

Online Shopping

At this point, who hasn’t made online purchases? When you do, your payment information is encrypted, protecting your credit card information against hackers.

Email Security

This is a big one. Many email services use encryption to protect your emails from being read by others.

What are the problems with encryption?

While encryption has many benefits, it also faces challenges:

Compatibility

Encryption can cause compatibility issues with some devices and applications that organizations have inside their network and can require expensive, complicated hardware and software.

Key Management

Managing keys securely is a challenge. If some person loses their key, they probably will lose their data. Also, like passwords, encryption keys can be cracked using brute force attacks.

Issues with Speed and Performance

Processing power is a necessary factor for encryption, so systems could slow down during encryption and decryption.

How to safely encrypt data?

Some steps are necessary to securely use encryption:

Use Strong Passwords

We can’t say this enough: ALWAYS use strong passwords for accounts and devices. That will make hacking difficult as it will take time to access. For some tips, please review our page Creating Strong Passwords.

Continuous Software Updating

Update your software regularly to protect against security vulnerabilities in software. They often contain new patches to fend off new threats.

Beware of Public Wi-Fi!

If you absolutely need to use public Wi-Fi, do so wisely: avoid sensitive transactions unless you can encrypt your internet connection using a VPN (Virtual Personal Network) which encrypts everything for you.