File encryption is the process of encoding or scrambling data in a file in order to keep it secure. Encryption converts plaintext data into ciphertext that can only be read by someone with the correct decryption key. Decryption is the reverse process of converting that ciphertext back into readable plaintext using the key. Encryption helps protect the confidentiality of file contents.
There are several common reasons for encrypting files, especially text files that may contain sensitive information:
- Protect personal or confidential data like social security numbers, account numbers, etc.
- Secure proprietary business data like customer lists, pricing, research, etc.
- Prevent access to private information in the event a device is lost, stolen or hacked
Encrypting text files is very popular since text files are easy to share online and transport between devices. Encryption allows the files to be shared safely without exposing their contents.
When To Decrypt Text Files Online
There are a few common scenarios where decrypting text files online can be useful:
Accessing old encrypted files you no longer have the key for – If you have an old encrypted text file but have lost or forgotten the encryption key, decrypting the file online may be your only option. Online decryption services use various algorithms and brute force methods to crack encryption without needing the original key.
Collaborating on encrypted files with remote team members – If you are working on sensitive documents with team members in different locations, storing the encrypted files online for secure access may be better than emailing unencrypted versions. Online decryption allows everyone to access and edit the decrypted file through a browser.
According to security experts, these online services should only be used as a last resort, as they pose risks to sensitive data security and privacy (cite: https://www.goanywhere.com/blog/7-scenarios-in-which-to-use-encryption-software). However, for limited use cases, online decryption can provide a convenient way to regain access to encrypted text when the key is unavailable.
Risks of Online Decryption
While online decryption tools offer convenience, there are some risks to consider before using them:
One major risk is the potential privacy and security issues these tools present. When you upload an encrypted file to an online tool, you are giving that service access to your sensitive data. There is no guarantee they won’t misuse or mishandle your information (Can encrypted data be hacked?, 2021).
Additionally, many fake decryption tools exist solely to capture users’ data. They may pretend to decrypt files while secretly collecting encryption keys, credit card details, or other sensitive information (Top 5 Encryption Threats You Need to Know, n.d.).
Legitimate looking sites can actually be phishing scams in disguise. Only use well-known, reputable services with stringent security standards. Avoid tools that seem sketchy or ask for unnecessary personal details.
In summary, while convenient, online decryption introduces risks of data theft and privacy violations. Proceed with caution and use only trustworthy tools to avoid being targeted.
Choosing a Secure Online Decryption Tool
When looking for an online text decryption tool, it’s important to choose one that is legitimate, secure, and protects your privacy. Some key things to look for include:
Use a well-known and trusted provider like DevGlan or GhostVolt. Check reviews and avoid any tools with reports of malware or security issues.
Ensure the tool uses robust 256-bit or higher encryption like AES when storing and transmitting your data. Weak encryption can easily be cracked.
Select a tool that encrypts and processes the text locally in your browser, without transmitting your original unencrypted data. Server-side processing is riskier.
There should be no limit on the length or number of texts you can decrypt. Beware of tools that seem artificially limited.
For ultimate peace of mind, consider open source tools where the code can be audited and vetted by the community. However, open source alone does not guarantee security.
Avoid any tools that seem sketchy, promise unrealistic claims, or ask you to download software. Reputable providers work fully in your browser.
In summary, do some research to verify legitimacy, check for encryption strength, and use your best judgment to find a secure tool that upholds your privacy when decrypting text online.
Uploading the Encrypted File
To upload your encrypted file, first you need to locate it on your computer. The encrypted file is usually saved with an extension like .enc, .aes, or something indicating encryption. Navigate to where you have saved the encrypted file.
Most online decryption tools accept common file formats like PDF, Word documents, Excel spreadsheets, images, etc. Some tools may have limitations on file size. Select the encrypted file and verify it is in an accepted format before uploading.
Once you have located your encrypted file, the upload process is straightforward:
- Click the upload or choose file button on the decryption tool website.
- Find and select your encrypted file in the file browser window.
- Click open to start uploading the file from your device to the website.
- Wait for the upload to complete. The page will usually display a progress bar.
- Confirm the file has fully uploaded and is ready for decryption.
As long as you select the correct encrypted file in an accepted format, the upload process is simple. Just be patient while the file uploads before moving on to enter your decryption key.
Entering the Decryption Key
To decrypt an encrypted file, you need access to the decryption key. This is usually a long, random string of characters that was used to encrypt the file initially. When using an online decryption tool, you will need to enter or upload this key in order to unlock the file contents.
There are a few options for inputting the decryption key into the online tool:
- Manually typing or pasting the key – This allows you to directly input the key characters. Make sure no one is shoulder surfing or spying on your screen as you enter it.
- Uploading a key file – Some tools let you upload a file containing the key rather than pasting it directly. This file should be kept securely just like the raw key.
- Retrieving a stored key – If the key is stored securely online, some tools can fetch it for you rather than needing direct input.
When entering the key, it’s important to keep it secure. Here are some tips:
- Avoid unsecured public WiFi connections that could allow the key to be intercepted.
- Clear the clipboard after pasting in the key so it doesn’t get saved there.
- Never send the raw decryption key over unencrypted channels like email.
- Close browser windows and clear history after entering the key.
- Use a password manager or secure digital storage to store the key rather than writing it down.
Taking precautions when inputting the decryption key will help ensure it stays protected and out of the wrong hands. Handle it with the same care as you would passwords or other sensitive information.
Decrypting the File
Once the encrypted file has been uploaded and the decryption key entered, the next step is to actually decrypt the file. The online decryption tool will run the encrypted file through its algorithm using your provided key to convert the data back into its original, readable form.
The time it takes to fully decrypt the file depends on its size. For small text files just a few kilobytes in size, the decryption may only take a few seconds. Larger files like documents, spreadsheets, images, videos and anything over a megabyte could take a minute or longer to fully decrypt.
After the file has finished decrypting, the online tool will display a confirmation message. You will then have the option to download the decrypted file directly to your device. Most tools allow you to download the decrypted file in its original format, like .doc, .xls, .jpg, etc. Some tools may also allow you to copy and paste the decrypted text if it was an encrypted text file.
To ensure security, it’s recommended you download the decrypted file instead of leaving it on the server. Once downloaded, you can then open the file to access the original readable contents which were previously encrypted.
Citations:
https://webbrowsertools.com/file-encryptor/
https://www.quora.com/How-can-we-decrypt-encrypted-files-online
Accessing the Decrypted File
Once the file has been successfully decrypted, you will need to access the unencrypted version in order to open, view, edit or share it. Most online decryption tools will allow you to directly download the decrypted file to your device. Be sure to save it in a secure location, like an encrypted folder or drive, to maintain the confidentiality of the sensitive information.
When working with the unencrypted document, avoid saving it in public cloud storage, sending it via unsecured email, or otherwise exposing it more than necessary. Set permissions on the file so that only authorized individuals can access it. Enable multi-factor authentication for the storage location if possible.
If you need to edit the decrypted file, make those changes in a secure environment then re-encrypt it when you are done. Avoid leaving the unencrypted document open on your desktop or saved in an insecure location. Following strong cybersecurity practices for protecting sensitive data will help mitigate the risks of working with decrypted files.
According to security experts, accessing decrypted files is the most vulnerable point for potential data breaches or leaks of sensitive information (https://blog.gitguardian.com/a-comprehensive-guide-to-sops/). Put proper protocols in place to keep confidential data protected after decryption.
Other Online Decryption Options
In addition to web-based decryption tools, there are some browser extensions and software alternatives for decrypting text files:
Browser Extensions
Some browsers like Chrome and Firefox have extensions that allow decrypting text right in the browser. For example, the Text Decrypt extension for Chrome lets you decrypt text by just selecting it and clicking the extension icon.
Pros:
- Convenient to decrypt text without uploading files anywhere
- Works across many sites and webpages
Cons:
Desktop Software
There are various desktop apps like Cryptainer, AxCrypt, and GNU Privacy Guard that allow decrypting files on your own computer. These provide robust encryption/decryption capabilities while keeping everything local.
Pros:
Cons:
While browser extensions and desktop software provide alternatives, online decryption tools offer a quick and easy way to decrypt text, especially for one-off needs. However, for handling sensitive data or routinely working with encrypted files, standalone desktop solutions may provide more control and security.
Conclusion
Decrypting encrypted text files online can be convenient, but also risky. The main steps are choosing a reputable and secure online decryption tool, uploading your encrypted file, entering the correct decryption key, and downloading the decrypted file. However, be very cautious before decrypting sensitive files online.
Here are some key takeaways when decrypting text files online:
- Only use well-known, trustworthy sites with a reputation for security and encryption best practices.
- Never decrypt extremely sensitive personal or financial data on a third-party online tool.
- Delete your uploaded encrypted file and decrypted file afterwards.
- Make sure you are on a secure internet connection to avoid interception.
- Use complex decryption keys that are not easy to guess.
- Consider risks like data leaks, limited file size, or malware on download.
With the right precautions, online decryption can provide a quick and convenient way to access encrypted text, while avoiding installing decryption software locally. But be very careful before entrusting any sensitive data to an online tool.