What is File Encryption?

When it comes to protecting your personal data, you can’t completely stop hackers from trying to attack. But you can make sure your devices are strong enough to defend themselves when threats come along.

While many people think about protecting their entire system, like their whole computer or phone, it’s also smart to focus on protecting the specific files that matter most to you—like photos, documents, or passwords.

This is where file encryption comes in. By encrypting your files, you add an extra layer of protection. Even if a hacker manages to break into your device, they won’t be able to access your encrypted files without the proper key. Encrypting your files is a smart choice, especially when you think about the potential consequences of a data breach—like identity theft, financial loss, or losing important personal information.

What is File Encryption?

Imagine locking your most precious files in a virtual vault. File encryption does just that. It transforms your data into unreadable code, ensuring that only authorized users can access it. Whether it's personal photos or sensitive business contracts, encryption provides the security you need in today’s digital world.

Encryption uses advanced algorithms to encode data. To access this data, you need a specific key or password. Without it, even the most sophisticated hackers can't decode your information.

Original methods of encryption were quite simple, like shifting letters in the alphabet or using symbols to replace them, as seen with the Caesar Cipher or the Enigma machine. Today, file encryption has evolved into something far more advanced, offering stronger security and making it a reliable option for securely sharing and transferring documents for both individuals and organisations.

How Does File Encryption Work?

Why Do I Need File Encryption?

The most common argument against implementing good cybersecurity practices is “I don’t have any data worth stealing”. However, this statement is incorrect, and cybercriminals commonly target individuals to steal personal data.

When thinking about your personal data, you might focus on credit card and banking information, which is primarily entered into the browser and not stored on the machine. However, a great deal of personal data can be extracted from files that you may store on your computer without thinking twice about them. Some examples of these files include

• Tax Return Documents:
  Most tax preparation software provides an option to store a copy of the return on your computer. A full tax return provides an attacker with all of the information that they require to perform identity theft. Similarly, W2s, 1099s, and other common forms can contain sensitive data.
• Family Photos:
  By default, many cameras and smartphones will embed location information in photos, which is why your computer can tell where and when the photo is taken. A picture of a backyard barbecue can reveal a home address, or a birthday photo reveals someone’s name and date of birth.
• Application Forms:
  Applications for a loan, rental, etc. often contain sensitive information like a social security number (SSN). This information can be used in identity theft scams.
• Travel Plans:
  When booking a vacation, you may store a copy of the booking information on a computer. These confirmations can include financial information, information about your travel plans, and provide a would-be burglar with a list of dates when a house will be empty.

Common, everyday files can reveal a great deal of personal information. Protecting these files with encryption when storing them on a computer can help to prevent this data from getting into the hands of cybercriminals.