Encryption
What is encryption?
Encryption is a method of security which can protect the data contained within your machine or your system from being accessed by unwanted third-parties. Encryption works by encoding the data that is the target of encryption using a secret key that then must be present in order to decrypt the specified data.
If your workplace issues you with a computing device from which to work, the chances are that encryption is already enabled within the operating system of your device by default.
On the other hand, if your workplace operates a bring your own device policy (BYOD), you may not have encryption enabled on your personal machine.
Data Protection
Within the United Kingdom, sensitive information such as personally identifiable information is protected under law by both the Data Protection Act and UK GDPR.
This means that if you store any data on your device relating to some of the things you do whilst at work or have access to sensitive data about individuals, then the data needs to be kept secure in order to comply with the rights of the data subjects.
As an example, if you were taking a train journey and left the laptop you use for work unattended whilst visiting the toilet and someone stole it in your absence, with device encryption enabled, the sensitive data on the device would not be able to be accessed without being able to gain access to your user account.
Enabling Device Encryption in Windows 10
- Click on the start button.
- Select Settings
- Choose Update & Security
- Choose Device Encryption
- Turn on Device Encryption
Enabling Device Encryption on Mac
- Click on the Apple Menu
- Select System Preferences
- Choose Security & Privacy
- Choose FileVault
- Choose whether you would like to unlock your disk using either iCloud or a Recovery Key
- Click Continue to enable device encryption