Glossary > Privacy > Data Protection > Data Encryption

Data At Rest Encryption

Data at rest encryption is a method of securing sensitive information while it is stored on devices such as computers, external hard drives, or servers. It involves encoding the data in a way that makes it unreadable without the appropriate decryption key.

Example #1

For example, when you save your financial documents on your computer, data at rest encryption scrambles the data so that even if someone gains unauthorized access to your device, they cannot read the documents without the encryption key.

Example #2

Another example is encrypting the customer data stored on a company's server to protect it from cyberattacks or unauthorized access.

Misuse

Misusing data at rest encryption could involve neglecting to properly secure the encryption keys, leaving them vulnerable to theft or unauthorized access. This could result in a data breach where sensitive information is exposed, leading to identity theft, financial loss, or other serious consequences. It's important to protect against misuse by implementing strict access controls and regular encryption key management practices.

Benefits

Data at rest encryption offers a crucial layer of protection for consumers and employees by safeguarding their personal information from unauthorized access. For instance, encrypting healthcare records on a hospital's database ensures that patients' confidential data remains secure and complies with privacy regulations.

Conclusion

Data at rest encryption plays a vital role in safeguarding sensitive information and upholding consumer privacy rights. By utilizing strong encryption methods, businesses can instill trust among their customers and demonstrate a commitment to data protection.

Last Modified: 4/30/2024