What is Cryptography in Cyber Security?

Posted on: Nov 17, 2023 | 3 mins | Written by: HDFC ERGO Team

What is Cryptography in Cyber Security?

So, what is cryptography in cyber security? Also called cryptology, cryptography is a famous cybersecurity practice of hiding or coding data to allow only the receiver of the message to read and understand its true meaning.

Hence, cryptography is the art used for several years to code messages and operates today for e-commerce, bank cards, or computer passwords.

The Importance of Cryptography

Cryptography holds a significant place when it concerns user and data protection. Essentially, it guarantees confidentiality by ensuring only the relevant private key of the recipient decrypts the encrypted messages.

It also does not allow cybercriminals to intercept valuable business information or prevent individuals from counterfeiting transactions, as every transaction comprises an attached digital signature. As a security measure, cryptography may also mitigate the premium costs of your cyber insurance.

Cryptographic Algorithms

Various cryptographic algorithms are available. Generally, these are mathematical equations that scramble a standard text into an unreadable code. You may use them for digital signatures, authentication, and data encryption. These are unique due to security and intricacy based on the shared information's sensitivity and communication type. These include three types:

1. Symmetric-key Cryptography:

Single key shared by the receiver and sender, which they use to encrypt or decrypt the message.

2. Public-key Cryptography:

Also called asymmetric cryptography, it comprises one public key for encryption and one private key for decryption. Here, private keys are confidential, while one can spread public ones freely.

3. Hash-function:

This algorithm does not use keys but calculates a specific length value through plaintext. Thus, it prevents the recovery of the plaintext contents. Computer systems use hash functions to code passwords.

Uses of Cryptography in Cyber Security

If you understand "what is cryptography in cyber security," here are some common uses of cryptography in cyber security include:

1. BYOD Device Encryption:

Policies like Bring Your Own Device allow employees to utilise personal devices for work, which can cause high-security risks. Businesses must encrypt BYOD devices to avoid data breaches and enable users to work remotely or bring on premises safely.

2. Database Encryption:

Databases comprise employee data, IP data, or customer data and require encryption to prevent the risk of data breaches.

Conclusion

Cryptography in cyber security is a popular tool for protecting IT assets and offers several benefits, like confidentiality, data integrity, authentication, and more. Businesses rely on encryption to protect their sensitive data. However, for better safety, it is always good to buy cyber insurance.

Disclaimer: The above information is for illustrative purposes only. For more details, please refer to the policy wordings and prospectus before concluding the sales.

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