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Client-Side Encryption Using AES-256 GCM

Overview

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The Client-Side Encryption Using AES-256 GCM feature ensures that all data stored in UnoLock CybVault is encrypted locally on the user’s device before being transmitted to the cloud, providing a zero-knowledge security model. Utilizing the AES-256 GCM (Advanced Encryption Standard with 256-bit keys in Galois/Counter Mode), a quantum-safe encryption algorithm, this feature guarantees that only the user with the decryption key can access their data. By performing encryption client-side, UnoLock ensures that sensitive information, such as cryptocurrency keys, documents, or personal records, remains inaccessible to servers, third parties, or potential attackers, reinforcing user privacy and control.

How It Works

  • Local Encryption: Data, such as files or cryptocurrency keys, is encrypted on the user’s device using AES-256 GCM, a symmetric encryption algorithm known for its speed, security, and resistance to quantum attacks.
  • Key Management: Encryption keys are generated and stored locally, ensuring that only the user possesses the keys needed to decrypt their data. UnoLock’s servers never have access to these keys, maintaining a zero-knowledge model.
  • Secure Transmission: Encrypted data is transmitted to AWS S3 for storage, protected by TLS during transit to prevent interception by attackers.
  • Authenticated Encryption: AES-256 GCM provides both confidentiality and integrity, using authenticated encryption to verify that data has not been tampered with during storage or retrieval.

Security Implications

  • Zero-Knowledge Privacy: Since encryption occurs client-side, UnoLock’s servers, employees, or potential attackers cannot access user data, ensuring complete privacy.
  • Resistance to Quantum Threats: AES-256 GCM is considered quantum-safe, protecting data against future quantum computing attacks that could compromise weaker algorithms.
  • Data Integrity: The GCM mode ensures that any unauthorized modifications to encrypted data are detected, safeguarding against tampering.

Use Cases

  • Cryptocurrency Storage: Users can securely store private keys or mnemonic phrases in their vault, knowing that they are encrypted locally and inaccessible to anyone else.
  • Sensitive Document Management: Individuals or businesses managing confidential files, such as legal or financial records, benefit from client-side encryption to protect sensitive information.
  • High-Privacy Scenarios: Users in high-risk roles (e.g., journalists, activists) can store data with confidence, knowing that even server breaches cannot expose their information.

Why It Matters

Client-side encryption with AES-256 GCM is a cornerstone of UnoLock’s zero-knowledge architecture, ensuring that users retain full control over their data. In an era of increasing cyber threats and quantum computing advancements, this feature provides robust protection against unauthorized access and future-proof security, making UnoLock a trusted solution for safeguarding digital assets.

FAQs

What is client-side encryption?

Client-side encryption means that data is encrypted on the user’s device before being sent to the cloud, ensuring that only the user with the decryption key can access it.

Can UnoLock access my encrypted data?

No, UnoLock operates a zero-knowledge model, meaning that encryption keys are stored locally, and servers cannot decrypt or access your data.

Is AES-256 GCM secure against quantum attacks?

Yes, AES-256 GCM is considered quantum-safe, as it uses a 256-bit key that remains secure against known quantum computing threats.

Compliance & Privacy Regulations

  • GDPR & HIPAA Compliance: Client-side encryption ensures that user data remains private and secure, supporting compliance with GDPR, HIPAA, and other data protection regulations by preventing unauthorized access.

Integration with Other Features

  • FIDO2 Authentication with WebAuthn: Client-side encryption complements FIDO2 authentication by ensuring that only authenticated users can access the keys needed to decrypt their data.
  • Secure Direct Storage of Encrypted Data in AWS S3: Encrypted data is securely stored in AWS S3, leveraging client-side encryption to maintain privacy throughout the storage process.