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Dual-Layer Encryption with AWS S3 Server-Side Encryption (SSE)

Overview

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The Dual-Layer Encryption with AWS S3 Server-Side Encryption (SSE) feature enhances UnoLock CybVault’s security by combining client-side encryption with AWS S3 Server-Side Encryption (SSE), providing an additional layer of protection for data stored in the cloud. While client-side encryption using AES-256 GCM ensures that data is encrypted before leaving the user’s device, SSE applies a second encryption layer managed by AWS, safeguarding data at rest in S3 buckets. This dual-layer approach ensures that even if one encryption layer is compromised, the data remains secure, maintaining UnoLock’s zero-knowledge model and protecting sensitive information like cryptocurrency keys, documents, or personal records.

How It Works

  • Client-Side Encryption: Data is encrypted locally on the user’s device using AES-256 GCM, ensuring that only the user with the decryption key can access the plaintext data.
  • Secure Transmission: Encrypted data is transmitted to AWS S3 over TLS, protecting it from interception during transit.
  • AWS S3 Server-Side Encryption (SSE): Upon reaching S3, the encrypted data is further encrypted using AWS-managed keys (SSE-S3) or customer-provided keys (SSE-C), adding a second encryption layer at rest.
  • Key Management: Client-side keys are managed locally by the user, while AWS S3 SSE keys are handled by AWS or the user (for SSE-C), ensuring separation of key control and enhancing security.

Security Implications

  • Enhanced Data Protection: The dual-layer encryption ensures that data remains secure even if one encryption layer is compromised, as both client-side and server-side keys are required to access the plaintext.
  • Zero-Knowledge Integrity: Client-side encryption maintains UnoLock’s zero-knowledge model, while SSE adds an additional safeguard without compromising user privacy.
  • Resilience Against Server Breaches: Even if AWS S3 servers are breached, the client-side encryption ensures that the data remains inaccessible without the user’s key, and SSE provides an extra barrier.

Use Cases

  • High-Security Data Storage: Users storing highly sensitive data, such as cryptocurrency keys or medical records, benefit from the added security of dual-layer encryption.
  • Regulatory Compliance: Businesses subject to strict data protection regulations (e.g., GDPR, HIPAA) can use dual-layer encryption to ensure compliance with encryption requirements.
  • Global Enterprises: Organizations with data stored across multiple regions can leverage AWS S3’s infrastructure and UnoLock’s encryption to maintain consistent security standards.

Why It Matters

In a cloud-based world, data breaches and unauthorized access are significant risks. The dual-layer encryption approach combines the strengths of client-side and server-side encryption, providing an extra layer of security that ensures user data remains protected, even in worst-case scenarios like server compromises. This feature reinforces UnoLock’s commitment to privacy and security, making it a trusted solution for safeguarding digital assets.

FAQs

How does dual-layer encryption differ from client-side encryption alone?

Dual-layer encryption combines client-side AES-256 GCM encryption with AWS S3 SSE, adding a second encryption layer at rest to enhance security beyond client-side encryption.

Can AWS access my data with SSE?

No, AWS cannot access your data, as client-side encryption ensures that only you have the decryption key, and SSE is an additional layer managed by AWS or you (with SSE-C).

What happens if my client-side key is lost?

If your client-side key is lost, the data cannot be decrypted, as AWS S3 SSE alone cannot access the plaintext. UnoLock’s LockOutGuard feature can help recover access in such cases.

Compliance & Privacy Regulations

  • GDPR & HIPAA Compliance: Dual-layer encryption supports compliance with GDPR, HIPAA, and other regulations by ensuring that data is encrypted both client-side and server-side, minimizing the risk of unauthorized access.

Integration with Other Features

  • Client-Side Encryption Using AES-256 GCM: Forms the foundation of the dual-layer approach, ensuring that data is encrypted locally before being sent to AWS S3.
  • Secure Direct Storage of Encrypted Data in AWS S3: Works in tandem to securely upload and store client-side encrypted data in S3, where SSE is applied for additional protection.