In the data-driven age, people exchange data at any given time making it one of the biggest global concerns of cybersecurity. Fortunately, there are several ways developed to maintain the security of one’s data, 6 of which will be discussed below that you can employ today!
Why secure our data?
Before discussing how to protect our data, we can discuss why data security is so important to several different groups of people. The main reason for data privacy is confidentiality, so only authorised parties can access information. This also allows the parties involved to authenticate each other’s identities, ensuring that the sender and receiver are the intended parties and that the data has not been tampered with through transmission. For businesses, a data breach means large-scale damage. Legally, many industries have data privacy as a main subject to ensure the integrity and security of sensitive information (e.g., Consumer’s private data). Furthermore, secure file transfers protect against cyber threats and privacy concerns. Lastly, safeguarding sensitive information is crucial for secure communication, which has become difficult due to public Wi-Fi environments and when using untrusted networks.
What are secure file transfers?
Secure file transfers refer to the process of transmitting files or information from one location to another in a secure, confidential, and authentic manner. Secure file sharing can be employed when sharing regular information but especially aids in securing private or sensitive information. We drafted 6 ways to secure file sharing:
- Data Encryption
Encryption is an all-encompassing technique employed at the forefront of data security. Encryption involves the conversion of data into complex code, making it unreadable to anyone who does not have the specific decryption key. In layman’s terms, encryption acts as a secret code that keeps files safe during transfers by turning the information into a word scramble that can’t be read. This process ensures that even if unauthorized individuals intercept the data, they are unable to make sense of it, rendering it useless. Data encryption is the most effective method of data protection, fostering trust between the parties involved.
There are several types of encryptions, which have their methods and uses. Symmetric key encryption involves using the same key for both encryption and decryption. This differs from asymmetric key encryption which uses a pair of keys that encrypt and decrypt. Lastly, there is also end-to-end encryption which ensures that only the recipient and sender can understand the contents of the message. This method is most popularly used for the social media application WhatsApp.
- Two-factor authentication
Two-factor authentication is another security process that requires two methods of verifying the user’s identity before granting them access to the system, service, or information. This first method of verification identifies the user and the second usually identifies the specific device they are granting access to. These methods include asking for a password, a physical item the user possesses or some form of biometric data. Two-factor authentication is seen as a very strong form of secure file-sharing protocol since it ensures stronger authentication, mitigates unauthorized access and is compliant with security standards. For example, most universities employ two-factor authentication to protect sensitive student and academic information against hacking.
- Secure protocols
Another widely known method is using secure protocols. A set of rules and procedures; secure protocols govern how information is transmitted over a network in a protected manner. This establishes a framework for encrypting data, verifying identities, and ensuring information integrity. Simply, secure protocols wrap messages in an unbreakable code and make sure they are sent and received without anyone intercepting them along the way.
The most popular form of secure protocol is Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) where protocols are used to secure webpages and sites. Secure File Transfer Protocols (SFTP) are used for transferring files over a network.
- Access control
Building on the concept of two-factor authentication, access control is another security measure that regulates who can use, modify, or even view information in a computing environment. Access control is specifically used to protect sensitive information and prevent unauthorized actions, ensuring data control. There are several types of access controls, such as usernames and passwords, authorization policies and encryption. In layman’s terms, access control acts as a keycard to enter a specific building. Without the keycard then, it becomes impossible to enter as you have not been authorized.
- Blockchain based file sharing
Blockchain-based file sharing is a relatively modern concept of file sharing but is already widespread in use. This method is a decentralized method of distributing and accessing files using blockchain technology. This means files are divided into chunks, encrypted, and stored across a network of computers in a secure and immutable manner. Each transaction related to file sharing is then recorded on a blockchain, allowing for full transparency and traceability. Decentralization means there isn’t a single point of failure as files are distributed across multiple nodes. Furthermore, once a transaction is recorded on a blockchain, it is extremely difficult to alter or delete, giving a high level of assurance of the information’s integrity.
- VPNs
A Virtual Private Network (VPN) is a technology that creates a secure and encrypted connection over a public network like the Internet. This allows users to send and receive data as if they were communicating over a private network, despite their location being elsewhere. VPNs ensure a secure tunnel within which the information is transported safely. This is especially helpful when using public Wi-Fi or untrusted networks where data is vulnerable to interception.
This article hopes to showcase the importance of secure file transfer practices and prevent the consequences of a data breach. Using the methods above, any individual or business can protect themselves from cyber threats and breaches, ensuring safe and secure data transfer.
By Meharbash Kashif