File Encryption

What is file encryption?

File Encryption means providing security for files that reside on media, in a stored state, such as a hard drives, USB drive, SD Card, or any other type of digital storage medium. Encrypted files are usually stored locally and are encrypted and temporarily decrypted while being used and than encrypted again after the user is finished using them.

File encryption should be used when full system or full disk encryption is not utilized.

Why should I encrypt my files?

Data Confidentiality: Encrypting stored files prevents unauthorized users from reading, copying, or deleting encrypted files.   

File encryption can help protect files and information that are stored at-rest on your system. Identity thieves can use information obtained from unencrypted files to commit fraud or steal information from your system, so it is important to protect your data. It ensures that if your computer or device is stolen, data stored in an encrypted format will be unavailable to unauthorized users.

What file encryption software does the University of Regina recommend?

VeraCrypt is encryption software which makes digital files unreadable except to people who have the passwords to open them. Faculty and Staff using devices that contain sensitive information, personally identifiable information, financial or research information, etc., should install VeraCrypt to protect their files while stored.

VeraCrypt uses the terms VeraCrypt file, VeraCrypt container, and VeraCrypt volume to describe the file used to store encrypted data. However, VeraCrypt container is used for the purpose of this article.

VeraCrypt Containers are a virtual disk encryption mechanism, wherein the process of encrypting a file called a container, which can hold many files and folders, and permitting access to the data within the container only after proper authentication is provided. Once authenticated, the virtual disk is mounted and accessible.