The encryption process protects against theft by converting data into code that’s only readable by the correct encryption keys. It is nearly impossible for unauthorised parties to access the data without the decryption key. This is the reason encryption is essential for keeping sensitive information secure whether it is stored on the move, or at rest. Additionally, encryption helps companies meet regulatory compliance standards, including HIPAA for healthcare data and PCI-DSS to protect payment card transaction information.
Unfortunately, encrypted information can be vulnerable to other kinds of attacks that do not involve direct theft. For instance malicious actors who encode data can hold it in a hostage situation until the organization pays a ransom for the encryption key released. To stop this kind of attack, organizations can protect their data and disks at rest using techniques like full-disk encryption (FDE) or database-level encryption.
Security access controls are an important element of a complete strategy. They should be implemented at every point where your data is not encrypted. This includes storage apps, network, and your databases. This will ensure that no area in your system is vulnerable to hackers who could gain access to encryption keys or encryption software.
Both access control and encryption are security tools with different characteristics. However, when combined they provide a powerful protection against the most common cyberattacks. While encryption can protect your data from being stolen and tampered with but it does not impose the accountability that access control does. It simply encrypts all your data so that only those who have the appropriate encryption keys can understand it.