Memory Encryption and Protecting Data in Use: Why It’s Important

Businesses often use standard storage to keep important digital assets safe for long periods or remote processing. Data that’s been stored on servers, in the cloud, or even on local devices are susceptible to unauthorized use, theft, or destruction.

Modern businesses that want to protect their data from malicious actors should convert their passwords and other critical information using a cipher that makes it harder to access without the proper credentials.

Why Should You Be Concerned About Data Protection?

Data privacy is a growing concern for many businesses. Compromised or stolen assets can have unwanted or unexpected consequences that limit the capacity of an organization to provide service.

Active data protection through the use of encryption adds an extra layer of security on top of stored and operational data. This encryption means that even if a user-level password, network, or data source is compromised, it will still be difficult for criminals to reach their target.

Knowing the best practices for data encryption gives decision-makers oversight over their data protection strategies.

How to Encrypt Your Data

It’s simple to set up data encryption on most devices. However, there are many options when choosing which encryption standard to deploy.

Gather Vital Data

Deciding what information needs to be encrypted beforehand will make the memory encryption process much easier. Vital assets that should only be accessed by select individuals should be included. With the right approach, it’s easy to protect important data with encryption.

Choose a Solution

There are many options available for decision-makers who want to deploy encryption for their digital ecosystems. These include:

• Advanced encryption standard (AES)
• Data encryption standard (DES)
• RSA security
• MD5 encryption
• Triple DES

Understanding the difference between these encryption standards will make it easier to protect digital assets from misuse.

Create a Secret Key

When encrypting files, only the user is given access to the encryption key. This exclusivity means that if it’s lost, so is all of the data. There’s no way to get it back. Encryption keys should therefore be safely stored and managed to ensure long-term viability.

Dispose of Unwanted Data with SEAM

Even encrypted data is vulnerable in the wrong hands. When you’re done with old computers, storage devices, and other sensitive equipment, make sure to dispose of them properly with the right provider.

SEAM is a business computer and hard drive shredding, recycling and data destruction company dedicated to keeping private information secure. Located in Sioux Falls, SD, we’re focused on data destruction for regional businesses. We also offer a 5/8″ strip cut shredding service for paper documents.

If you’re in North Dakota or South Dakota and are in the process of replacing old hardware, don’t forget to properly dispose of your vital data. SEAM offers certified destruction so you can be confident that your data is destroyed correctly.

Don’t let your encrypted data get into the wrong hands. Contact SEAM today!