Hackers and malware are increasingly becoming adept at accessing files without the authorization that they need, and this has made it vital for security companies to develop new ways of protecting you and your documents online. Encryption is one of the best ways for your company to keep documents and sensitive information private between you and your colleagues, rather than make these accessible to suspicious parties. Read on to find out more about why you should encrypt files and how to do this.
What is encryption?
Encryption is a process that makes data and documents unreadable to forces who do not have the access requirements that they need, such as a password or authorization. During encryption, documents will be scrambled and randomized until the party with the key accesses the documents, at which point they will be returned to their original formatting.
How do you encrypt data?
- Many devices, such as laptops and computer systems, will already have encryption services installed by default, meaning that you do not have to take any extra measures in order to protect your files.
- However, if you are unable to invest in an operating system with pre-installed encryption, you should look at investing in software such as McAfee and their endpoint encryption services. Their security features combine encryption with other services such as firewalls and anti-viral software from the endpoint of your computer, meaning that you can have comprehensive protection whenever you use your device. There are also different types of software that allow you to encrypt individual files, rather than the whole operating system.
Why is it important to encrypt data?
- It allows you to store data online: There are many worldwide issues concerning data breaches in the current climate. One of the major benefits of encrypting data is that it allows you to store data online on services such as the cloud, which are run by third party networks, and know that they will remain secure. Many cloud providers offer encryption services to help companies store their data remotely without data breach concerns.
- Makes communications remain private: Now that the vast majority of company communications take place online, data encryption is key to ensuring the documents and sensitive information that you send online can stay private. While services such as WhatsApp already use encryption, encryption can also keep files secure when you are using other methods of communication such as email.
- Stops large-scale data breaches: Data Encryption also stops large scale data breaches that are targeted by hackers and malware companies. While large data breaches are becoming increasingly common, with there being a significant amount of incidents in 2019 so far, it is important to stop your business from falling victim to these campaigns.
- Prevents data theft if your device is stolen: Trends in cybercrime are changing every year, but the one that does not change is device theft. Data encryption also protects your business if your device is stolen, ensuring that hackers cannot access the documents stored on your device, such as financial information.
- Aligns with business regulations: Over 200K is lost to businesses from cybercrime, and that is why there are now many company guidelines that state that businesses must have security software and encryption on customer data and sensitive documents.
Author Bio
James Daniels is a freelance writer, business enthusiast, a bit of a tech buff, and an overall geek. He is also an avid reader, who can while away hours reading and knowing about the latest gadgets and tech, whilst offering views and opinions on these topics.