The most suitable encryption method for sensitive information is one that balances security, efficiency, and ease of implementation. When discussing cybersecurity, encryption is widely regarded as one of the most important components of a strong data protection strategy. However, many businesses and individuals tend to overlook the significance of implementing a robust encryption method. With the rise of data breaches, protecting sensitive data should not only be a priority, but it should also be viewed as a systematic practice that ensures data is well-protected at every stage.
According to the “Cost of a Data Breach 2022” report by IBM, the average cost of a data breach for organizations is approximately $4.35 million, and 83% of the organizations surveyed have experienced more than one data breach in their history. Prioritizing data encryption can not only be beneficial in the long run, but it can also instill a sense of security and confidence.
What is encryption and how does it work?
Cryptography is the process of converting readable information (plaintext) into an unreadable format (ciphertext), ensuring that the information remains secure during transmission or storage. This is achieved through complex algorithms that scramble the data, making it impossible to interpret without the correct decryption key.
AxCrypt uses the AES-256 encryption algorithm, a proven method employed by governments and organizations worldwide. With AxCrypt, your files remain secure, whether stored on your device or shared with others, preventing unauthorized access at any level.
Types of Encryption Methods
Cryptographic methods are generally categorized into two types: symmetric encryption and asymmetric encryption. Each of these methods has different objectives, and understanding their distinctions is crucial for selecting the appropriate solution. Symmetric encryption utilizes a single key for both encryption and decryption processes.
While this method is fast and efficient, the main challenge is securely sharing the key between parties. In contrast, asymmetric encryption employs two keys: a public key for encrypting data and a private key for decrypting it. This approach enhances security, as only the intended recipient can decrypt the information. However, while asymmetric encryption is more reliable in terms of security, it is slower and requires more resources.
The most commonly used cryptographic algorithms
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Advanced Encryption Standard (AES)
AES, widely known as Rijndael, is a symmetric encryption algorithm used across various industries. Its key lengths—128, 192, or 256 bits—provide strong security for all types of data. AES operates on a complex substitution-permutation network, making it computationally infeasible to break.
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Triple DES (3DES)
3DES is an enhancement of the original DES (Data Encryption Standard) algorithm, which applies the algorithm three times to each data block. Although 3DES offered improvements over its predecessor, it has ultimately been found to be vulnerable to modern attacks. The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) has declared 3DES obsolete, and its use in new systems is gradually being phased out.
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RSA
RSA is an asymmetric encryption algorithm named after its inventors: Rivest, Shamir, and Adleman. This algorithm is widely used to secure communications, including SSL/TLS for web security, email encryption, and even cryptocurrencies. RSA operates by generating large prime numbers to create an encryption key and provides varying levels of cryptographic strength.
How does AxCrypt encryption work?
For secure file sharing, AxCrypt employs asymmetric encryption, which utilizes two keys: a public key for encrypting files and a private key for decryption. This ensures that only the intended recipient can access the data and adds an extra layer of security when sharing sensitive information.
