ITS Office of Information Security

Data Encryption

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What Is Data Encryption?

Data encryption is a method that can allow you to safeguard electronic information by preventing unauthorized access to files. Encryption software works by converting "plain text" data that can easily be read into encrypted data via use of complex mathematical operations and a unique key. An encryption keys work in a similar manner to physical keys to doors or or a locked filing cabinet. Without the key, it is often extremely difficult to gain access to encrypted data. Most often encryption keys take the form of passphrases where only individuals who have the passphrase can unencrypt and view the data.

Issues & Risks Related To Data Encryption

Because access to encrypted data is dependent on your key (see above), it is possible that if you lose your key you may lose access to your data. For this reason it is very important to consider how you might securely backup and protect your encryption key when considering encryption.

Benefits of Data Encryption

Encryption secures data by scrambling it into an unreadable format, providing benefits like confidentiality (keeping data private), integrity (preventing tampering), compliance with regulations (GDPR, HIPAA), enhanced security against breaches, increased consumer trust, and enabling secure remote work and cloud storage, ensuring only authorized users with the correct key can access sensitive information. 

Data Encryption Methods

  • Full Disk Encryption - This type of encryption is used to safeguard all data stored on a hard-drive including the operating system. 
  • File Level Encryption - This type of encryption uses a single key or multiple keys to encrypt a single file or series of files only.
  • Container Based Encryption - This type of encryption provides encryption of a container file that internally contains other files that can be read (i.e. encrypted zip file).

How To Encrypt Personal Devices

Important Note:  Your data encryption protection is only as secure as your encryption key.  Make sure to use strong passphrases for your key that are easy to recall. If you store your key (i.e. write down passphrase) make sure you store it in a safe location.