Data Encryption and Information Security of Public Sector Organizations in South-South, Nigeria

Authors: OKERE, Albert Eziuche, Prof. Ebikaebina Tantua Jnr and Prof. Patrick Nyinyokpugi

Abstract:
The prevalence of cyber-attacks, data breaches, insider threats, thirty-party risks and advanced persistent threats has forced organizations to adopt new technologies to secure its information assets. This study examined the application of data encryption in relation to information security in the public sector organizations in South-South Nigeria. The cross-sectional survey plan and a quasi-experimental research design were adopted for the study. The study population were 6 public sector organizations in South-South Nigeria. The study elements were 5 Directors from each of the organizations, bringing the total of respondents to 30. Data for the study was generated through structured open-ended questionnaire. The study used simple descriptive and inferential statistics to analyze data generated. The hypothesis of the study was tested using the Pearson Product Moment Correlation Statistics and presented with the aid of Statistical Package for Social Sciences. The study established a significant and positive relationship between data encryption and confidentiality in information security; significant and positive relationship between data encryption and integrity in information security; and a significant and positive relationship between data encryption and availability in information security. It concludes that there is a positive and significant relationship between data encryption and information security and therefore recommended that organizations adopt the data encryption mechanism that protects its information from unauthorized access, mutilation and alteration.

Keywords: Data Encryption, Information Security, Confidentiality, Integrity, Availability

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