Before we talk about advanced encryption, considered the most secure encryption method, let's explore in this article what encryption is, what types there are and what it's for. Enjoy it!
The first step to understanding more about the world of cryptography is to know what it means. In a nutshell, it is a method that converts texts into abstract codes known as ciphertexts. Its main purpose is to hide sensitive data to prevent unauthorized users from accessing and stealing this information. Most websites and applications use this technique to protect data transmissions digitally. Another very interesting example is digital data platforms such as Google Cloud, which uses encryption to add an extra layer of security to its services.
How important is encryption for your company?
Concern about information security is not just a trend, it’s a must for everyone. This is because there is a considerable increase in confidential information being transmitted and stored digitally. Protecting this data against cyber threats, which are also on the rise, must therefore be a priority for companies of all sizes. That’s where encryption comes into play, playing a key role in protecting a company’s sensitive data, ensuring that only authorized parties can access and understand the information transmitted and also guaranteeing that even if the data is intercepted by malicious third parties, it remains unreadable and useless.
Imagine, for example, a data transmission between a customer and an online store’s server. Without encryption, payment information such as credit card numbers could easily be captured by hackers during transmission, putting the financial security of customers and the reputation of the company at risk. However, with the implementation of advanced encryption techniques, this information is protected by an additional layer of security, ensuring that only the intended recipient can decipher and use it.
In addition, with the entry into force of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), which establishes strict guidelines for the processing of personal data, requiring companies to adopt adequate measures to protect this information from unauthorized access, leakage and misuse, companies face new challenges in protecting the privacy and security of users’ personal information.
By converting sensitive data into encrypted codes, encryption guarantees the confidentiality and integrity of this information, preventing unauthorized third parties from accessing or understanding it. This practice is in line with the fundamental principles of the LGPD, which aim to protect personal data from security and privacy threats. Now, let’s find out what types of encryption exist and finally, we’ll talk a little more about advanced encryption! Be sure to read to the end 🙂
What types of cryptography are there?
There are several types of encryption, each with its own characteristics and implementation methods. Some of the most common types include:
Symmetric Cryptography: In this type of encryption, the same key is used to both encrypt and decrypt the data. This means that the sender and recipient need to agree on a shared key in advance. Popular symmetric algorithms include AES (Advanced Encryption Standard) and DES (Data Encryption Standard).
Asymmetric cryptography: Also known as public key cryptography, this type of cryptography uses a pair of different keys: a public key and a private key. The public key is used to encrypt the data, while the private key is used to decrypt it. This eliminates the need to share a secret key between sender and recipient. Common asymmetric algorithms include RSA (Rivest-Shamir-Adleman) and ECC (Elliptic Curve Cryptography).
Hashing: although not technically a form of encryption, hashing is widely used to protect data integrity. A hash algorithm converts input data into a sequence of fixed alphanumeric characters, called a hash. Even a small change in the input data results in a completely different hash. This is useful for checking whether data has been modified during transmission or storage. Common hashing algorithms include SHA-256 (Secure Hash Algorithm 256 bits) and MD5 (Message Digest Algorithm 5).
Flow and Block Cryptography: flow encryption operates on individual bits of data in real time, while block encryption operates on fixed blocks of data at once. AES is an example of a block encryption algorithm, while RC4 is an example of a stream encryption algorithm.
Adaptive Plain Text Cryptography: this type of encryption allows encrypted data to be manipulated (e.g. searched) without the need to decrypt it first. This is useful in situations where analysis of encrypted data is required without compromising security. An example of an algorithm that offers this feature is Fully Homomorphic Encryption (FHE).
These are just a few examples of the most common types of encryption. Each type has its own applications and security considerations, and choosing the right one depends on the specific security and privacy needs of each system or application. Let’s now finally explain a little more about advanced encryption and why this is the encryption method most recommended by experts!
Learn about advanced encryption and its advantages
Advanced encryption is a sophisticated form of encryption that uses highly complex algorithms and data protection techniques. It is considered the best encryption technique compared to other methods, due to its ability to offer a superior level of protection for companies’ and users’ sensitive data.
How does this work in practice? It’s simple. Unlike traditional encryption methods, advanced encryption uses highly sophisticated algorithms and larger cryptographic keys, making it extremely difficult for attackers to compromise data security.
These algorithms are designed to withstand the most advanced attacks carried out by hackers and cybercriminals, ensuring that information remains protected against unauthorized access, leakage and misuse. In addition, advanced cryptography is incredibly adaptable to complex and constantly evolving security scenarios. With the rapid evolution of technologies and cyber threats, it is essential that security solutions are able to adapt and respond effectively to new challenges. Advanced cryptography offers this flexibility, allowing companies to protect their data effectively in any environment or context.
Finally, this method is often accompanied by additional security features, such as multi-factor authentication and key management. These complementary features help to further strengthen data security and ensure that only authorized users can access sensitive information. Want to know more about the relevance of advanced cryptography for your company? Talk to the consultants at Tracenet! We have professionals specialized in information technology and cybersecurity.
