What is a Cipher?
A cipher is a method of encrypting data to keep it secure from unauthorized access. It involves transforming plaintext into ciphertext in such a way that only authorized parties can decipher the original message.
Types of Ciphers
- Substitution Ciphers
- Transposition Ciphers
- Block Ciphers
- Stream Ciphers
Examples of Ciphers
One famous cipher is the Caesar cipher, where each letter in the plaintext is shifted a certain number of places down the alphabet. Another example is the Enigma machine used by the Germans during World War II.
Case Studies
An example of a cipher in action is the use of AES (Advanced Encryption Standard) in securing data transmitted over the internet. This encryption algorithm is used by many websites to protect sensitive information such as passwords and credit card details.
Statistics on Ciphers
A study by IBM found that the average cost of a data breach in 2021 was $4.24 million. Implementing strong ciphers can help prevent such breaches and protect valuable data.
