7 Ways To Ensure Your Business’ Website Is Properly Encrypted
Encryption is a process of transforming readable data into an unreadable format. This is done using an algorithm, a set of rules that can be applied to the data to change it. The purpose of secure encryption is to protect information from being accessed by unauthorized people.
About Encrypting
For data to be encrypted, it must first be converted into a code. This code can then be decrypted or translated into its original form using the same algorithm. The strength of encryption lies in the fact that it would require considerable time and processing power for someone to decrypt the data without the key.
Types of Encryption
There are two main types of secure encryption: symmetric and asymmetric. Symmetric encryption uses the same key to encrypt and decrypt data. Asymmetric encryption uses two different keys: one to encrypt the data and one to translate it. The keys are mathematically related, but it is impossible to derive one from the other.
Use SSL Certificates
When transmitting sensitive information, such as credit card numbers or passwords, it is essential to use a secure connection. SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) is a protocol that provides a secure connection between two computers.
When you connect to a website using SSL, the information exchanged between your computer and the website is encrypted. This makes it difficult for anyone to intercept and use the information without your permission.
Use Strong Passwords
A strong password is a key that is difficult to guess and is not used for any other purpose. It should be at least eight characters long and include a mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols.
Never use the same password for more than one account. If someone manages to obtain your password, they will have access to all of your accounts.
You should also change your passwords regularly. This will help to ensure that even if someone does manage to obtain your password, they will not be able to use it for long.
Use Two-Factor Authentication
Two-factor authentication is a security measure that requires you to provide two pieces of information to log in to an account. The first piece of information is something that you know, such as a password. The second piece of information is something that you have, such as a phone.
With two-factor authentication, even if someone manages to obtain your password, they will not be able to log in to your account unless they also have your phone.
Keep Your Software Up To Date
One of the most important things you can do to keep your website secure is to keep your software up to date. This includes the operating system, web server software, and any other software used on the server.
Outdated software often has security vulnerabilities that attackers can exploit. By keeping your software up to date, you can help to ensure that these vulnerabilities are patched and your website remains secure.
Encrypt Your Backups
If your website is hacked, it is vital to have a backup of your data. This will allow you to restore your website to its previous state.
You should encrypt your backups so that even if an attacker obtains them, they cannot access the data. This will help to ensure that your data is not lost if your website is hacked.
You can use a cryptographic key. This will allow you to encrypt your backups without needing a password. The key can be stored on a USB drive or other removable media and used to decrypt the backups when needed.
You can also use a third-party service to encrypt your backups. This will provide an added layer of security and help to ensure that your data is not compromised if your website is hacked.
Use A Web Application Firewall
A web application firewall (WAF) is a security measure that can help to protect your website from attacks. A WAF examines traffic and blocks requests that appear to be malicious.
You should consider using a WAF if your website is accessible to the public. This will help to ensure that attackers do not compromise your website.
Encrypt Your Database Tables
You should encrypt the tables if your website uses a database like MySQL. This will help to ensure that the data is not compromised if the database is hacked.
You can use a tool such as phpMyAdmin to encrypt your database tables. This will provide an added layer of security and help to ensure that your data is not lost if your website is hacked.
You should also consider encrypting any sensitive data stored in the database. This includes passwords, credit card numbers, and other personal information.
Final Thoughts
These are just a few of the ways that you can help to ensure your website is properly secured. By taking these measures, you can help to protect your website from attacks and ensure that your data is not lost or compromised.