Encryption is the process of converting readable data (plain text) into an unreadable format (cipher text) to protect it from unauthorized access. Only those who have the correct key or password can decrypt and access the original information.
🔹 How Does Encryption Work?
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Original Data: This is the readable information (e.g., a message or file).
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Encryption Algorithm: A mathematical process that turns the original data into scrambled code.
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Key: A unique piece of information (password or code) used to scramble and unscramble the data.
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Encrypted Data: The unreadable, scrambled data (cipher text).
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Decryption: Using the key, the encrypted data is converted back to its original readable form.
🔹 Types of Encryption
| Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Symmetric Encryption | The same key is used for both encryption and decryption. Example: AES (Advanced Encryption Standard). |
| Asymmetric Encryption | Uses two keys: one public key to encrypt the data and a private key to decrypt it. Example: RSA (Rivest-Shamir-Adleman). |
| Hashing | A one-way encryption used to turn data into a fixed-size string of characters (hash). It's irreversible. Example: SHA-256. |
🔹 Where is Encryption Used?
| Field | Examples of Use |
|---|---|
| Online Banking | Securing transactions and customer account information. |
| Email Communication | Protecting the content of emails from being read by unauthorized parties. |
| Data Storage | Encrypting files and data on computers or cloud storage to prevent unauthorized access. |
| E-commerce | Protecting payment details during online purchases (e.g., credit card numbers). |
| Messaging Apps | Encrypting messages to ensure privacy (e.g., WhatsApp, Signal). |
🔹 Benefits of Encryption
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Protects sensitive data from hackers and unauthorized access
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Ensures privacy for users and organizations
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Prevents identity theft and fraud
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Ensures data integrity by preventing unauthorized alterations
🔹 Challenges of Encryption
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Key management: If encryption keys are lost or compromised, data can be lost or exposed.
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Performance: Encryption can slow down system performance due to the extra processing required.
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Legal concerns: In some countries, there are regulations on encryption use and key access.