What is the Advanced Encryption Standard (AES)?

The Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) is a symmetric encryption algorithm widely used to secure sensitive data. Established in 2001, the U.S. National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) set it as a standard, replacing the Data Encryption Standard (DES), which had become vulnerable to brute-force attacks due to its relatively short key length.

Applications of AES Encryption

The versatility and reliability of AES encryption make it indispensable in numerous applications:

• Data transmission: It secures data transmitted over networks, ensuring confidentiality and integrity in online communications, including HTTPS connections and VPN tunnels.
• Data storage: AES encryption safeguards stored data, protecting it from unauthorized access in databases, cloud storage, and portable devices.
• File encryption: It's used to encrypt files and folders, adding an extra layer of security to sensitive documents.

Go deeper: What happens to your data when it is encrypted?

The significance of AES in cybersecurity

AES has gained widespread adoption and recognition due to several factors:

• Security strength: AES is regarded as highly secure when used with sufficiently long keys. Its robustness against brute-force attacks makes it a reliable choice for safeguarding sensitive data.
• Versatility: Its flexibility in supporting different key sizes allows for scalability and adaptability to various security requirements.
• Performance: Despite its strong encryption, AES remains computationally efficient, ensuring minimal impact on system performance.

Related: The Importance of Healthcare Cybersecurity

AES and HIPAA compliance

HIPAA requires the protection of protected health information (PHI) when it's transmitted or stored electronically. While the regulation doesn't explicitly mandate the use of specific encryption algorithms, it does require that covered entities and their business associates implement appropriate safeguards to protect PHI. However, due to its widespread adoption and strong security features, AES is frequently used by healthcare institutions for the encryption of electronic patient information. 

Here is how AES affects HIPAA compliance:

Strong encryption standard

AES is recognized globally as a robust encryption standard. The strength of AES encryption helps ensure that PHI remains confidential and secure, reducing the risk of unauthorized access in cases of data breaches or unauthorized disclosures.

Protection of sensitive data

AES encryption, with its varying key lengths (128, 192, or 256 bits), offers a high level of security. This ensures that PHI is encrypted during transmission and storage. 

Compliance with Security Rule

HIPAA's Security Rule requires the implementation of technical safeguards to protect PHI. Encryption is one of the recommended mechanisms listed under these safeguards. By employing AES encryption, healthcare organizations demonstrate compliance with the Security Rule's encryption requirements, strengthening their overall security posture.

Risk mitigation

Using AES encryption aids in risk mitigation by reducing the likelihood of unauthorized access or data breaches. It assists covered entities in adhering to the HIPAA Privacy Rule by ensuring that PHI is not compromised or accessed by unauthorized individuals, thereby safeguarding patient confidentiality and privacy.

Industry best practice

While HIPAA sets the minimum standards for protecting PHI, AES encryption surpasses these requirements and is widely considered an industry best practice. By implementing AES encryption, healthcare entities go beyond mere compliance, prioritizing the security and privacy of sensitive patient information.

See also: 

• HIPAA Compliant Email: The Definitive Guide
• What are the 18 PHI identifiers?

FAQs

What is the difference in the levels of AES encryption?

• 128-bit (adequate for most applications)
• 192-bit (enhanced security)
• 256-bit (the highest level of security).

The choice depends on the sensitivity of the data and specific security requirements.

Is AES encryption alone enough to ensure HIPAA compliance?

AES encryption is just one component of HIPAA compliance. Covered entities must implement administrative, physical, and technical safeguards, conduct risk analyses, and maintain proper documentation to comply fully with HIPAA regulations.

Can AES encryption be used for mobile devices under HIPAA?

AES encryption is highly effective for securing ePHI, including on mobile devices such as smartphones, tablets, and laptops. Implementing encryption on mobile devices helps comply with the HIPAA Security Rule and mitigates risks associated with lost or stolen devices.