en
If you're concerned about the security of your data, rest assured there's a solution. Bank-grade AES-256 data encryption is a reliable tool that can effectively maintain the confidentiality of your data and personal information, ensuring your peace of mind.
Initially used as an alternative to the DES encryption standard, which is vulnerable to brute-force attacks, the United States government later adopted AES encryption due to its high level of security. If you're curious, read on to learn more about AES encryption.
AES-256 encryption, or the Advanced Encryption Standard, is the tool chosen by the United States government to keep data confidential. Built in 1997 by the National Standards and Technology Agency (NIST), AES was originally just an alternative standard for Data Encryption Standard (DES), which is vulnerable to Brute Force.
Since the National Security Agency (NSA) approved AES to protect classified government information, AES encryption changed from an alternative standard to an information encryption standard. "How can it change from an alternative to a standard? Yes, is AES-256 encryption really that secure?
Due to its high-security level, the AES-256 encryption algorithm has been used for decades by governments, businesses, and the military. It is considered to be the most secure algorithm currently available.
With the most extended key and the highest encryption level, hackers must try at least 2^256 combinations to hack 256-bit keys with up to 78 digits. With 14 rounds of encryption, AES-256 provides a level of security equivalent to banks and financial institutions, which is extremely difficult to breach, even with advanced computing and algorithms.
Unsurprisingly, U.S. agencies use AES-256 encryption as it provides strict security measures to protect sensitive data and personal information. Now, let's find out how AES-256 encryption works. Keep reading below!
AES-256 encryption works faster and more efficiently in processing data due to less computing power compared to asymmetric key algorithms. With symmetric key ciphers, AES uses the same secret key for encryption and decryption.
Here are 7 ways AES-256 encryption works in processing, replacing, transposing, and mixing plain text into passcode text:
The encryption process involves dividing the information into 128-bit blocks arranged in 4x4 columns, each 16 bytes long. This ensures that the data is organized and can be more easily manipulated using cryptographic algorithms to ensure its confidentiality and security.
In the second step of AES-256 encryption, a round key is created from the initial key. This is done using the Rijndael block cipher algorithm, which generates a unique key to encrypt the data.
This process helps ensure the security and confidentiality of the encrypted information.
To encrypt using AES-256, a round key is added to each data block. The data block is then split into 4x4 blocks according to the AES algorithm.
This ensures the encryption process is secure and follows industry standards to protect sensitive information.
After adding a round key in the third stage, AES-256 encryption performs a byte substitution. Each byte of data is replaced with another byte according to the set substitution table.
After performing byte substitution, the AES algorithm shifts the 4x4 array's rows according to specific rules. For example, it moves the second-row byte one space to the left and shifts the third-row two spaces.
The AES algorithm employs a column blending technique to encrypt the data arrays of 4x4 size. This blending is performed using predefined matrices.
In the last stage of AES-256 encryption, another round key is added. Steps 2-6 are then repeated with the inclusion of the new round key.
AES-256 encryption provides a secure data exchange process with seven practical ways of working. However, many wonder if hackers can hack this encryption. Below are some facts about AES-256 encryption hack attempts to help you understand the security of your data.
A well-configured and implemented encryption system like AES-256 is almost impossible to break by brute force or side attacks. Cybersecurity experts suggest it takes millions to billions of years to hack AES-256, whereas hackers can hack 56-bit DES keys in less than a day.
AES ciphers are considered highly secure as they are vulnerable to side attacks such as electromagnetic signals, time information, power consumption, or sound. To ensure comprehensive cyber risk management, FINETIKS takes a holistic approach to security and defence.
FINETIKS is a reliable money management app that prioritises security and continuous improvement. Its multi-factor authentication and verification features ensure that users' information is secure.
Moreover, FINETIKS has also received certification ISO27001, highlighting its commitment to providing a safe and trustworthy service. So, you don't have to worry about recording and managing finances with FINETIKS application.
You can now download the FINETIKS application via Google Play or the App Store to organise and manage your finances!
Numerous large industries and institutions prioritise data security by implementing AES-256 encryption. Companies across various sectors, from finance to healthcare, rely on this encryption to safeguard sensitive information.
Below is a list of companies, institutions, and industries that use AES-256 encryption to secure their data:
It's worth noting that the WhatsApp messages and data stored in Google Cloud are encrypted using the AES-256 standard and other institutions and companies. Several other devices, applications, and networks also utilise this encryption method to ensure security and safeguard data from potential hacking attempts.
