Modern computers have tools to secure data, making it unreadable for anyone who does not have the correct key. What exactly is encryption and how does it work? This article explains how encryption protects sensitive information from snoopers.
In simplest terms, data encryption transforms the information that is readable into encryption that can be deciphered only by authorized users with the right password. It is a crucial element of cyber-security, which ensures the security of data and protects sensitive information away from unauthorised users.
A common form uses mathematical models that are cryptographic, which convert the original information into a chaotic collection of characters (also called ciphertext). The encryption algorithms “scramble” individual bits in a randomized fashion so that even with huge computing power, it could take a long time to try and determine the key needed to convert back to plain text.
For instance, if you employ the most commonly used form of encryption known as AES (Advanced Encryption Standard) for your digital files, every one of the ones and zeros that comprise it is scrambled ten times in an uni-random pattern. Without the correct key to decipher it, computers would have to run for a very long time to rearrange them all into the correct form.
Also, encryption is used to protect against data leaks and ransomware. Hackers who gain access to encrypted data are unable to read the data and can’t threaten the company, or the person involved with the threat to release the stolen data onto the dark web. Furthermore, encryption protects backup systems from hackers as they aren’t able to access the data in its original format.
