24 February, 2021

Brochure

Protecting and Decrypting Data Using Open Source Software

What is encryption?

Rules that include principles, methods and means of storing and transmitting data or information in a particular form.

What is the point of encryption?

Conceal the data’s semantic content and prevent unauthorized use or undetected modification so that only the persons concerned can read and process it.

How can I encrypt my files?

There are a lot of effective and high quality free programs and software that you can use to protect yourself, your family, and your company. Most of these programs belong in the Free and Open Source Software (FOSS) world.

How can I access open source software?

There are many ways to access them, some of the most notable methods are below:

Internet search engine: All you have to do is write FOSS in the search engine or Open Source along with the type of program you want. For example; FOSS password manager. You will see many free options that you can compare and choose from.

Alternative website engine: open alternativeto.net in the web browser then type in any commercial program that you know in any category that you target. You will see a long list of alternatives categorized in many ways with a statement clarifying if it is commercial or free, reviews of other users who share your same interests will be displayed.

Software programmers’ websites: open the “github.com” or “sourceforge.net” search engine, then look for the category of programs you are interested in, for example “parental control”.

Encrypting your data and files inside your personal devices contributes in their protection in case of robbery or when you hand them over for maintenance reasons, or when they become infected by malware. It also protects the privacy of your data and files when transferring them through external devices like USB and DVD/CD.

Most notable data protection programs:

• VeraCrypt. A free and open source software
  • www.veracrypt.fr/en/Downloads.html
• DiskCryptor A free and open source software
  • diskcryptor.org/downloads
• GnuPG. A free and open source software for encrypting files and digital signatures.
  • gnupg.org/download/index.html
• 7-Zip A free and open source software to compress and encrypt files
  • www.7-zip.org
• Windows Bitlocker. A commercial software, available for free in those versions: Pro, Enterprise, and Education for Windows programs
• Mac File Vault. Available in Mac laptops

Disclaimer:

“Saudi CERT emphasizes that its role is limited exclusively to raising awareness and offering the beneficiaries guidance to security information sources in their various types. As well as disseminating best practices for individuals to raise their own awareness and effectively reach the suitable security programs and information, without endorsement or promotion to its contents, which includes commercial or non-commercial software open or closed source software.”