What Is Encryption Software?

With consumers worried about identity theft and so many high-profile news stories about data loss, businesses and consumers are looking for ways to protect their information. While it is contained on a PC and when it is transmitted to the Internet, the most popular way to secure this information is through the use of encryption software. Thousands of software products are equipped to encrypt your data, often without any action on your part, and if you've ever shopped online, you've probably used encryption already.

Function

Encryption software is used to scramble your data so that only you and the intended recipient can read and understand it.

Fun Fact

Encryption that is considered to be strong could take thousands or millions of years for a single computer to break.

Misconceptions

Encryption isn't only for security buffs and geeks; many software programs you use on a daily basis may encrypt information before sending it over the Internet.

Warning

Encryption can help secure your data, but even the best encryption cannot help if your PC has already been hacked. The best first line of defense is a strong password for your PC and online accounts.

Advancements

Security experts and hackers are always looking for stronger methods of encryption or ways to break current methods of encryption. Most encryption software includes many methods of encrypting your data and may be updated regularly to stay ahead of data thieves.