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Companies should utilize more encryption techniques

While cyberthieves once mainly targeted computer users with poor or nonexistent security measures in place, the federal government has become an increasingly common target. While a single personal computer will offer only so much potential reward, government databases are filled with valuable information including social security numbers, tax return information and classified documents. In recent years, federal agencies have witnessed an increased number of cyberattacks.

With the threat of cybercrime on the rise, InfoWorld's Peter Wayner offered several steps for concerned corporations and individuals to protect their sensitive information. Among the litany of recommendations Wayner provided, data encryption was a prominent topic. Although difficult to do at all, much less correctly, a solid encryption method provides a solid defense against would-be data thieves. According to Wayner, many organizations avoid the use of encryption because of the added difficulty placed on programmers' shoulders. The enigmatic nature of encrypted code can make debugging a more tiresome process, but the security benefits outweigh the comparatively slight inconvenience.

The key to integrating effective encryption measures as seamlessly and painlessly as possible is by choosing a vetted and proven service. A high quality encryption technique such as the implementation of an SSL certificate from a reputable vendor can protect in-transit data from hackers. Additionally, encrypting data stored on a company's server can protect sensitive information in the event of a security breach. If cyberthieves were able to access an encrypted data file, the information would be so incomprehensible as to be rendered virtually useless. Implementing preexisting encryption programs also reduces the amount of arduous coding needed to be performed by programmers. Wayner suggested that, given the high degree of difficulty involved in crafting an effective encryption tool, it is wiser to simply install an existing, field-tested piece of software rather than build one from scratch.

Secure your sensitive information by installing your SSL certificate today.

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