In today’s digital world, encryption is a fundamental aspect of cybersecurity. It plays a critical role in protecting sensitive information, from credit card numbers to personal data, by converting it into an unreadable code. The only way to decrypt this information is with a key, which only authorized individuals should have access to. But despite its importance, there are many myths surrounding encryption that can put your business at risk.

In this blog, we’ll debunk some common encryption myths and provide you with the essential information you need to protect your data effectively.

Understanding the Role of Encryption in Cybersecurity

Encryption is a process that converts readable data into a coded format, which can only be unlocked with a decryption key. This process ensures that even if information is intercepted during transmission or while stored, it remains unreadable to unauthorized individuals. Encryption is vital for securing sensitive data, whether it’s being transmitted over the internet or stored on a computer or mobile device.

However, encryption alone is not enough. It’s crucial to understand how to properly implement encryption and the associated security measures to protect your data from cyber threats.

Encryption Myths and Misunderstandings

Myth 1: Encryption is Enough to Keep My Data Safe
Encryption is a powerful tool, but it doesn’t guarantee complete security. While it ensures that your data is unreadable to anyone without the decryption key, it doesn’t protect against all types of cyber threats. For example, even if your data is encrypted, if the website or service you're using is compromised (such as in phishing or malware attacks), encryption will not protect you. In 2019, 58% of phishing attacks used HTTPS, tricking users into believing they were on secure sites. Encryption (indicated by the green lock icon or HTTPS) doesn’t always mean the website is legitimate or safe.

Myth 2: Sending an Encrypted Email is Always Safe
Encrypting an email is a great way to secure sensitive information, but sending personally identifiable information (PII), financial details, or passwords through unsecured channels is still risky. When sending emails, always ensure that you’re using encrypted email services. If you’re using Microsoft 365, encryption is simple to implement, and this added layer of security makes it much harder for hackers to intercept your information. However, never send sensitive information via regular, unencrypted email, as it’s akin to mailing a postcard, which anyone along the way can read.

Myth 3: Encryption is Only for Large Corporations
Encryption is essential for businesses of all sizes. In fact, small businesses are often more vulnerable to cyber-attacks because they might not have the same resources or robust security measures as large enterprises. Encrypting portable devices is especially critical. If a laptop is lost or stolen, encryption ensures that sensitive data is protected and not accessible to anyone without the decryption key. In contrast, an unencrypted laptop could lead to a massive data breach. A real-world example of this is the breach that occurred when an employee’s unencrypted laptop containing sensitive medical data was stolen from Blue Cross. Proper encryption could have prevented that breach.

Best Practices for Encryption

To ensure the best protection for your data, follow these key encryption best practices:

• Encrypt All Portable Devices: Laptops, smartphones, and other portable devices must be encrypted to protect data in case they are lost or stolen.

• Use Encrypted Email: When sending sensitive information, always use encrypted email services to prevent unauthorized access.

• Ensure Website Security: Always check for HTTPS in website URLs, as this means the site uses encryption. Be cautious, though—just because a site is encrypted doesn’t mean it’s safe. Verify the legitimacy of the site before entering any sensitive information.

Three Takeaways for Strong Encryption Practices

1. We Can Do Better
   According to the 2021 Entrust Global Encryption Trends report, only 42% of companies use encryption to secure customer data. This shows a significant gap in securing sensitive data that must be addressed.

2. Security Envelopes
   Just as you wouldn’t send a check on a postcard, don’t send sensitive information via unencrypted email. Always use encrypted channels to protect your data.

3. Encrypted is Not the Same as Secure
   While encryption (indicated by HTTPS and the green lock icon) ensures that data is protected in transit, it doesn’t guarantee a site’s overall security. Always verify the legitimacy of websites before sharing any personal or financial details.

Conclusion

Encryption is an essential component of cybersecurity, but it’s not a catch-all solution. It’s important to understand the myths surrounding encryption and take additional measures to ensure your data is safe. Encryption can’t protect you from phishing attacks, compromised websites, or stolen devices unless implemented alongside other security protocols. By following best practices and staying vigilant, you can significantly enhance your business's cybersecurity and protect your sensitive data from cyber threats.