Email encryption

Email encryption is a process in which the content of an email is hidden to prevent sensitive information from being read by the wrong individuals.

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Samantha Spiro
Samantha has over seven years of experience as both a content manager and editor. Bringing contact info to life is the name of her game. Some might say she’s a bit ‘SaaS-y.’

Email encryption is about concealing your messages from prying eyes by encrypting them into a confidential code before passing through the internet.

 

Only the intended recipient with the matching password or decryptor can view and read your message. Without encryption, you’re left with plain text emails and sensitive information can be leaked.


What makes encrypting emails so crucial 

  • Over 80% of businesses have seen fewer data breaches since they started encrypting their emails.
  • Companies that use encryption have a 40% decrease in compliance issues and related penalties.
  • Studies indicate that secure emails can boost customer trust, with encrypted emails seeing 30% higher engagement.
  • Analysts predict that in 2025, stricter regulations and increased cyber attacks will propel email encryption adoption by 20%.

     

An expert’s opinion

 

Bruce Schneier

Security technologist @ Counterpane Systems

Think of email encryption like your digital coffee shop’s loyalty program – it’s not just about security protocols and tech specs, but about creating that cozy corner where your readers feel valued and protected, knowing their information is wrapped in the same care as their favorite drink order.


You know how your favorite coffee shop barista remembers your complicated order perfectly? That’s Bruce’s whole philosophy on email security in action – it’s not just about fancy encryption algorithms and technical jargon, but about building the kind of trust that makes customers feel like VIPs.

 

Drawing from his extensive cybersecurity experience, Bruce has seen firsthand that going the extra mile to protect sensitive data is like giving your customers a digital VIP lounge where they know their privacy is treated as seriously as that perfect coffee-to-milk ratio in their morning latte.

Real-world examples on email encryption wins 

The infamous Sony Pictures hack showed how vulnerable email communications are. During the hack, sensitive internal emails were leaked, resulting in widespread data leakage and reputational damage. Although encryption was not the only answer, experts believe that robust email encryption would have limited the extent of the leaked data, protected confidential communications, and possibly defused some of the fallout. 

In an illustration of how a weak link can undermine an entire network, journalist, Brian Krebs, recounted an email-borne attack on a vendor that ultimately resulted in the massive Target breach. Hackers had delivered deceptive emails to a vendor tasked with critical system configurations, misleading them into forgoing access credentials. With this knowledge, hackers broke into Target’s network, paving the way for one of history’s most prominent and notorious retail data breaches. 

Overcoming email security fears

Challenge: Most companies are scared off by the perceived complexity and expense of implementing email encryption. The equipment or software could be misused because of poor integration or a lack of proper training.

 

Solution: Select easy-to-use, cloud-based encryption software with excellent support and clear instructions. Regular training sessions and seamless integration into your existing email systems can make it more accessible and cost-effective. This cutting-edge approach has your encrypted communications working like a charm without breaking the bank. You will also comply more with compliance such as GDPR.

How to make the most out of email encryption 

  1. Review your existing email security setup.
  2. Choose a good encryption software with a proven track record.
  3. Choose an integration that is compatible with your existing email system.
  4. Provide regular training to your personnel on secure use of email.
  5. Regularly audit your system for efficacy and compliance.
  6. Continuously monitor your security metrics and modify your strategy as needed.
  7. Monitor changes in legislation and best practices.

Author

  • Samantha has over seven years of experience as both a content manager and editor. Bringing contact info to life is the name of her game. Some might say she's a bit 'SaaS-y.'

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