Encrypting Stored Data

Encryption is the conversion of data into a form, called ciphertext, that cannot be easily understood by unauthorized people.  Decryption is the process of converting encrypted data back into its original form, so it can be understood.

Before using encryption programs, evaluate if it is absolutely necessary to store confidential or private data on this computer or mobile computing device (e.g., PDA or USB flash drive). Consult with your local technical support staff.  If you need to store private data, take steps to encrypt the data to help prevent unauthorized disclosure of private data. For laptops, data encryption is just one of the required steps in the University's Securing Private Data Standard.

There is a variety of encryption software available for common operating systems. Some software encrypts the entire hard disk, while others have an option to encrypt specific files or folders on the hard disk. Some operating systems, such as Microsoft Windows and Apple Macintosh have an option to turn on the operating systems built-in encryption software. There are also some readily available data encryption products from third party vendors. Some are even free.

No matter what product you choose, here are some important reminders:

• Consult with your local technical support staff.
• Read about the encryption product.  Understand how to configure the software, where to store the keys and what is  encrypted.  Some products do NOT encrypt the files when they are e-mailed or saved to external media. 
• Encryption is dependent on using strong passwords or passphrases.
• Download encryption software from reputable company Web sites. Some encryption products may install a backdoor for hackers, adware, spyware or viruses.
• All encrypted data can be permanently lost if you forget the encryption password (or passphrase). If you decide to save them, decryption keys should be locked in a a safe location.
• Do not decrypt a file and store in a temporary file someplace. If this occurs, be sure to securely wipe/erase the file from disk.
• Consider setting up a secure folder or disk partition on the computer for storing private data.
• Properly done (good software, strong password, etc.), encryption is good protection for laptops and portable devices that may get lost or stolen as well as other computers.

Below are options for various operating systems/media: Macintosh, Unix, Windows and USB flash drives.

At the University for full disk encryption, in rough order based on number of users, the following encryption products are used: CheckPoint (PointSec), Sophos (Utimaco), Microsoft BitLocker, TrueCrypt.

Windows

Below are some products used within the University by some departments.  Be sure to download the software from a reputable site and periodically check the vendor web site for security patches or updates that must be applied.

*

Macintosh

Below are some products used within the University by some departments. Be sure to download the software from a reputable site and periodically check the vendor web site for security patches or updates that must be applied.

Macintosh OS X has native 128-bit encryption, called File Vault. File Vault encrypts the contents for a user's home directory.

Note:

• Company administrators can set up a computer-wide master password as a safeguard in the event someone forgets their login password.

Unix

Be sure to download the software from a reputable site and periodically check the vendor web site for security patches or updates that must be applied.

USB flash drives

USB flash drives are available with encryption to protect the contents. As with all software, periodically check the vendor web site for security patches or updates that must be applied.
 
 

Other third party encryption software is also available to encrypt data on USB flash drives. Be sure to download the software from a reputable site and periodically check the vendor web site for security patches or updates that must be applied.

Note: The University of Minnesota has no business relationship and makes no endorsement of any product listed.