Data in native formats, such as texts, documents, or spreadsheets, may be easier to read using a suitable application software. For sensitive data, additional controls may be required to prevent unauthorized access or disclosure of such information. Cryptographic methods offer the best solutions for such requirements. By using cryptographic methods, confidentiality and integrity requirements can be addressed more effectively.
The following are some of the common cryptographic methods used in data security controls.
When data is encrypted, it means that the data is scrambled or transformed into an unintelligible form with an appropriate key to unscramble it or, in other words, return it to its original form. Without the key, data cannot be read either by humans or other applications. The key is called the crypto variable. This method of data protection will ensure confidentiality.