Encryption

Encryption

1. It is commpon practice to encrypt data when it is stored in and when it is being transmitted between IT systems

2. Encryption of stored data

   • Stored data is a popular targe for cyber attacksas it often holds sensitive data like bank card details and email adresses
   • It is also possible to encrypt entire disk drives meaning a password may be needed when trying to reload the data
   • This is useful in the event of somebody trying to physically steal the disk drive from a computer, such as in the event of a burglary

3. Encryption of transmitted data

   • Organisation web servers can use a digital signiature that can be transmitted to a web browser to prove its identity and encrypt data transmissions between them
   • You can tell if a connection is secure when you see a padlock and the https prefix on a website adress

4. Benefits and drawbacks

   • Benefits
     • Encryption scrambles data so that others cannot easily read it
     • using encryption ensures that organisations comply with dadta protection laws
   • Drawbacks
     • Encryption does not stop data from beoing stolen
     • Encrypting a large ampount of data can take time
     • Encryption methods need to continually evolve and change as attackers find new ways to accss data