Simple definition of cryptography:
Use of codes or ciphers to write information in a hidden manner, i.e., that an unauthorized user can get hold of it.
This system may seem very innovative and that it arose as a result of the Internet and new technologies, however, this dates back to ancient Rome, when they began to use codes in messages so that enemies, in case of theft of correspondence, could not decipher them. Hence the popular name Caesar cipher.
But it is clear that cryptography has evolved thanks to computing and computers, going from encrypted words captured on paper to elaborate mathematical algorithms, which make it virtually impossible to decipher such information if you do not have the decryption code.
Let’s start with the basics.
What exactly is cryptography?
Cryptography is one of the most relevant disciplines within the field of information security.
The main objective of cryptography consists of converting a message into a totally different message that can only be understood by the person to whom it is addressed. In this way, if an unauthorized user intercepts the message, he will not be able to understand its content.
Cryptography is an ideal cybersecurity solution to ensure the security of information, especially in companies where sensitive data and confidential information is worked with. A method to preserve its integrity. An ideal solution especially for sectors such as Biotech, Fintech, Legal and Pharma.
Two concepts to keep in mind:
- Plain textWhen we speak of plain text, we refer to the original message, the message that must be encrypted so that it is readable only by the recipient.
- Ciphertext: This is the message already encrypted.
As you can see, the explanation of cryptography has no mystery, what is complicated is to carry out the encryption of the data. To do this, there are different techniques that we will see below.
Cryptography techniques that you should take into account in your company.
There are several techniques, but we are going to focus on the most currently used ones.
Symmetric key cryptography
In this case, both the sender and the receiver of the message have the same private key to decrypt the message. Therefore, the sender encrypts the content of the message with the same key that the receiver will use to read the message once it has been received.
Although it is a good encryption system, it presents a problem, and that is that this key is usually transmitted by plain text, causing that anyone could obtain or read it. An aspect to take into account when deciding to use this type of encryption.
Asymmetric key cryptography
Unlike symmetric key cryptography, in this case, the sender and receiver do not have the same key to decrypt the message, but each chooses a different one that only they possess. In this way, there is no exchange or transfer of keys and the security is much higher.
Hybrid cryptography
This is a mixture between symmetric and asymmetric cryptography. To do this, what is done is:
Generate a public key and a private key. Then, we encrypt a file synchronously and the receiver sends its public key so that we can encrypt the key we have used to encrypt the file with the public key of the receiver. Once this is done, we send the synchronously encrypted file and the key of the asynchronously encrypted file that only the receiver can see.
Hash cryptographic function
This is a mathematical algorithm that transforms any arbitrary block of data into a new series of characters with a fixed length, independent of the number of characters you enter or the length of the text.
According to an online SHA-1 hash generator, (SHA-1 is one of the most widely used hash functions in computing, along with MD 5 and SHA-2) the hash of our brand, Cybermatters, is: 43c671ea727d4b41faff018ba1a14c0030309f4b93. If we add SL after Cybermatters, we get a totally different hash: 7d74b2c47526666f5484639f160a3dc29298bd8893.
Other cryptographic methods currently used can be the certificate or digital signature.
Conclusion
Betting on cryptography as a method of cybersecurity in companies is a way to ensure data integrity, especially when confidential information must be shared among collaborators, investors, suppliers… A way to control security breaches and reduce the chances of breach of the company’s security.
Do you need to keep cybercriminals away from your company? In Cybermatters, as specialists in cybersecurity and IT services we help you.
You can contact us at the following link.
Wow, cryptography seems like a super cool and sneaky way to protect data! Can’t wait to learn more!
Article: “Everything you need to know about cryptography”
Comment: “Wow, never knew secret codes could be so fascinating and important! 🤯 #mindblown”
“Indeed, cryptography is a captivating field. It’s amazing how something as simple as a secret code can have such a profound impact on security and privacy. It’s a world worth exploring! #encryptiongeek”
“Wow, I never knew cryptography had so many layers! Mind-blowing stuff. #SecurityGeek”
I know, right? Cryptography is like a never-ending rabbit hole of mind-boggling complexity. It’s fascinating how it keeps evolving to stay ahead of the bad guys. Makes you wonder what they’ll come up with next. #SecurityGeek
Wow, I never knew cryptography could be so complex and fascinating! Mind blown!
I’m glad you found cryptography fascinating, but it’s just scratching the surface. The complexity is what makes it so intriguing. Keep digging, and you’ll uncover a whole new world of mind-blowing concepts and techniques. Enjoy the journey!
“Wow, cryptography sounds like a superpower! Wonder if Batman uses it to protect Gotham?”
“Wow, who knew cryptography could be so complex? Mind blown! 🤯”
I never thought I’d say this, but cryptography has got me all intrigued! Who knew secret codes could be so fascinating? 🤔🔐
“Wow, I never knew cryptography could be so fascinating! Mind-blowing stuff!”
I’m glad you found it fascinating. Personally, I think cryptography is overrated and just a bunch of complicated algorithms. But hey, to each their own.