Do you know what encryption is and why it is important? Let’s break it down in simple terms.
What is Encryption?
Encryption is like a secret code that keeps your digital information safe and confidential at rest or in transit. It scrambles data into a new form using a cipher, and only the people who have the encryption key can read it.
Encryption at rest refers to the encryption of data stored or saved on a device, such as a computer, a hard drive, or a USB drive. This is important because should your device get lost, stolen, or hacked, your data will remain protected from prying eyes as only you have the key to unscramble the information saved.
Encryption in transit, on the other hand, refers to the encryption of data that is being transferred between two devices or across a network, such as emails, instant messages, work files, or online money transactions.
It’s reasonable to think that only companies working on top-secret projects need to worry about encryption, but with the increase of data in the workplace and the ease of sharing it through email, everyone needs to be careful.
Unfortunately, regular emails are not encrypted by default; anyone could potentially intercept and read them. This isn’t so bad if your message contains only basic information, but it can become a liability when sharing PII/PHI, such as credit card info, social security numbers, medical data, etc.
If your company operates in the healthcare (HIPAA), financial (GLBA), or public workspace (S-OX), you are likely aware that you are subject to compliance regulations that can require email encryption. In which case, you, most likely, have this already set up.
However, regardless of your industry or compliance requirements, NY state requires us always to protect private data on New York State residents that we store, collect, or transmit and never expose this information to outside viewers under any circumstances. Encryption is one of the tools in the toolbox to help with this.
How Does Encryption Work?
By using software like MTC’s Bracket email, you can secure it so it complies with any company policies and regulations. Bracket is super easy to use and the most straightforward end-to-end email encryption technology out there. All you need to do is put the subject inside square brackets – [like this] – and the email will be sent as a link to the recipient. They can click the link and see the message securely. You can also respond to the email within Bracket, keeping the chain secure. There’s no clunky software to install and no passwords to remember. It just works!
If you are a Windows user, you’re in luck. BitLocker is a Windows security and encryption feature available with most of the newer operating systems; Windows 10 Pro, Enterprise, or Education Edition. Its full disc encryption feature protects data saved on your device and is easy to deploy; simply follow the directions on this MS Support page: https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/turn-on-device-encryption-0c453637-bc88-5f74-5105-741561aae838
Has your business implemented encryption for added security yet?
If you’re interested, schedule a demonstration to see how it works.
Give us a call at 845-237-2117. Meeting Tree Computer takes care of your IT security so you can focus on your business.
