Encryption is a security practice that transforms data into an unreadable format using a secret key or algorithm. Encryption protects the confidentiality and integrity of data, especially when they are transferred using email or other communication channels. Encryption ensures that only authorized parties can access and use the data, while unauthorized parties cannot decipher or modify the data without the key or algorithm. Encryption also helps to comply with data protection laws and regulations, such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) or the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA), which require data controllers and processors to implement appropriate technical and organizational measures to safeguard personal data.
Centrally managed encryption is a type of encryption that is implemented and controlled by a central authority or system, such as an organization or a service provider. Centrally managed encryption has the following advantages over end user-managed encryption, private cloud storage space, or password-protected .zip files, for reducing the risk of compromise when transferring personal information using email:
It can enforce consistent and standardized encryption policies and procedures across the organization or the service, such as the encryption standards, algorithms, keys, modes, and formats.
It can automate the encryption and decryption processes for the users, without requiring them to perform any manual actions or install any software or plug-ins on their devices.
It can monitor and audit the encryption activities and incidents, and provide visibility and accountability for the data protection and compliance status.
It can reduce the human errors or negligence that may compromise the encryption security, such as losing or sharing the keys, forgetting or reusing the passwords, or sending the data to the wrong recipients.
References:
Encryption in the Hands of End Users - ISACA, section 2: “A key goal of encryption is to protect the file even when direct access is possible or the transfer is intercepted.”
The Complexity Conundrum: Simplifying Data Security - ISACA, section 3: “Centrally managed encryption solutions can help enterprises overcome these challenges by providing a unified platform for encrypting data across different environments and applications.”
Email Encryption: What You Need to Know - Lifewire, section 1: “Email encryption is a way of protecting your email messages from being read by anyone other than the intended recipients.”
