Encryption

What is encryption and why is it important?

Encryption is the process by which data is converted into an unreadable code so that only authorized parties can read or use it. In cyber security, encryption is crucial to protect sensitive data such as customer information, financial data and trade secrets from unauthorized access. It is the cornerstone of information security and helps companies to prevent access by third parties (e.g. cyber criminals). Even if an attacker captures the data, it remains worthless without the right key.

Difference between symmetric and asymmetric encryption

With symmetric encryption, both parties use the same key for encryption and decryption. This method is efficient and fast, but is only suitable for cases in which secure key distribution is possible. Asymmetric encryption, on the other hand, uses a key pair: A public key encrypts the data and a private key decrypts it. Asymmetric encryption is often used for secure connections on the Internet, but is more computationally intensive than the symmetric method and therefore slower.

How HTTPS works and security advantages over HTTP

HTTPS protects communication between web browsers and servers using SSL/TLS encryption. In contrast to HTTP, where data is transmitted unencrypted, HTTPS protects all transmitted information and thus reduces vulnerability to man-in-the-middle attacks. The use of HTTPS guarantees the integrity of the data and ensures that sensitive information such as passwords and credit card details cannot be intercepted and altered.

End-to-end encryption (E2EE) and its application

End-to-end encryption means that only the sender and recipient can access the data without third parties such as service providers being able to read it. Even in the event of a potential data leak on the provider side, the information remains inaccessible. This method is used in applications such as messaging apps (e.g. WhatsApp, Signal) and offers users maximum privacy and protection against unauthorized access.

Encryption vs. hashing

Encryption and hashing differ fundamentally in their purpose and function. While encryption is a reversible technique in which the data can be decrypted with a key, hashing is a one-way process that converts data into a fixed string of characters (known as a hash). Hashing is often used to store passwords. As it is not possible to recover the original data from the hash, hashing offers a high level of security for stored information, provided the hashing algorithms are secure and up-to-date.

Security of encryption algorithms (AES, RSA, SHA)

• • AES: The Advanced Encryption Standard is a symmetric encryption algorithm that is characterized by high security and efficiency. AES-256 is considered practically unbreakable and is one of the most frequently used algorithms for encrypting sensitive data.
  • RSA: RSA is an asymmetric algorithm that is characterized by high security, especially when using key lengths of 2048 bits or more. Due to its computational intensity, RSA is usually used for the secure transmission of keys.
  • SHA: The Secure Hash Algorithm (SHA) is often used for data integrity checks. SHA-256, a member of the SHA-2 family, is considered secure. However, older versions such as SHA-1 are insecure and should no longer be used as they are susceptible to collision attacks.

Risks associated with the use of encryption

Although encryption offers a high level of protection, it also harbors specific risks:

• • Weak keys: Short or insecure keys can increase the risk of a brute force attack. It is crucial to use strong, complex keys.
  • Incorrect implementation: Errors in the implementation of encryption systems can lead to serious security vulnerabilities. One example is the Heartbleed bug, a serious error in the SSL protocol.
  • Human error: Misconfiguration, improper storage or careless handling of keys can ruin the effectiveness of encryption. It is essential to provide a clear policy and training on how to use encryption techniques.

Importance of encryption for the GDPR

The General Data Protection Regulation recommends encryption as a means of securing personal data. Companies can use encryption to ensure the confidentiality of data and limit the potential damage in the event of a data breach. Encrypted data is considered more secure under GDPR guidelines and, in the event of a data breach, sanctions can be mitigated or avoided if an appropriate level of encryption has been implemented.

VPN and encryption

A Virtual Private Network (VPN) encrypts the data traffic between a device and the VPN server and protects privacy, especially in insecure networks such as public WLANs. VPNs ensure anonymity by concealing the user’s IP address and at the same time encrypting all transmitted data. This prevents third parties from viewing or intercepting the data traffic, which is essential for the security of remote work and the use of unsecured networks.

Ensuring robust encryption

Several measures are required to ensure that the encryption is not compromised:

• • Strong algorithms and key length: The choice of modern algorithms (e.g. AES-256) and sufficiently long keys (e.g. RSA-2048 or more) reduces the risk of a successful attack.
  • Regular updates: Encryption protocols and software must be updated regularly to close security gaps and comply with the latest security standards.
  • Multi-factor authentication (MFA)The additional authentication factor offers additional protection, even if encryption and access data are compromised.

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