Data breaches are a major concern for any organization, as the loss or compromise of sensitive information can have severe consequences. One of the most effective ways to prevent data breaches is through the training of staff to recognize and avoid cybercriminal tactics and errors that can lead to data disclosure. However, even the most vigilant individuals can make mistakes or fall prey to well-crafted spear phishing emails. To truly safeguard against potential data breaches, organizations must combine staff training with the implementation of advanced security technology.
There are a plethora of security solutions available in the market today, but when it comes to protecting against data breaches, encryption stands out as the most effective tool. Encryption is a process of converting plaintext into ciphertext, which is unreadable without a decryption key (read here for a more in-depth explanation). This ensures that even if a hacker gains access to the data, they will not be able to make sense of it. Cybersecurity professionals agree that encryption is the best option for enterprises, local government departments, schools, and colleges to protect their data and prevent data breaches.
Encryption: The Key to Data Protection
Historically, confidential or sensitive data was stored in a designated secure area on a company network, with permissions allocated to grant access. However, this approach has several drawbacks. Firstly, if a system is hacked or access credentials are phished, the data can be compromised. Secondly, even if the data is secure when static, it becomes vulnerable when it needs to be moved, shared, or transferred beyond the system. This is where encryption comes in. It solves these issues by making all data files entirely illegible to anyone who does not have the decryption key. As the data itself is secured instead of the location, it can be easily moved and remains protected from data breaches.
This is where encryption comes in. It solves these issues by making all data files entirely illegible to anyone who does not have the decryption key. As the data itself is secured instead of the location, it can be easily moved and remains protected from data breaches.
Email Security: A Key Component of Data Protection
Email is a common communication tool, but it is often the cause of data breaches. If a user creates a typo in the address field of a sensitive email, the content can end up in an unknown entities inbox and result in a data breach. Email accounts can be hacked, and messages can also be intercepted by attackers. Both scenarios lead to data breaches when the emails involved contain personal information on data subjects.
However, if a firm encrypts its business emails and any attachments they include, data breaches are avoided. Whether incorrectly addressed or interfered with by malicious entities, all information included is illegible and therefore safeguarded, avoiding any chance of a data breach.
Encrypting your emails not only keeps the content of your messages safe from data breaches, but it also ensures the confidentiality of sensitive information. With encryption, only authorized recipients with the correct decryption key can read the message, making it virtually impossible for hackers to access the information.
Start encrypting your data today
Whether you wish to encrypt data files which are at rest, on the move or in storage, at Galaxkey we can help. Our state-of-the-art end-to-end encryption is NCSC-approved and employs the onion model recommended for US government use. Data is wrapped in three robust layers of encryption to protect it from prying eyes and ensuring it cannot be tampered by unauthorised personnel.
Our encryption solution can also be used effectively with business emails and encrypts both the copy in messages and any attachments. Exceptionally user-friendly, it promotes productivity and correct usage for optimum security.
To protect your firm against a data breach, contact us today for a free online demonstration.
