
Writing a data management plan: encryption
What is encryption?
Encryption is the process of converting data into an unreadable code. You must have access to a password or a secret encryption key to be able to read an encrypted file.
Encrypting your data will help ensure your data remain safe from disclosure in the event that a laptop or other portable device such as a stick ends up lost or stolen.
Glasgow Caledonian University Information Systems policy warns users that files containing personally identifiable information should be encrypted. Contact the IS Helpdesk for help.
However, be aware that any encrypted data will be lost if you lose the password or encryption key or if the disk image is corrupted or the hard disk fails.