Transformation-free data encryption, also known as format-preserving encryption (FPE), improves data security by encrypting data while retaining its original format, structure, and length. This ensures that encrypted data can be used in systems designed for plaintext without requiring modifications, reducing the risk of errors or compatibility issues.
For example, in a financial system where credit card numbers must remain 16 digits long, FPE encrypts the numbers into another valid 16-digit format. This allows the system to process encrypted data seamlessly while protecting sensitive information from unauthorized access.
In cloud environments, Tencent Cloud offers services like Tencent Cloud Data Encryption Service (KMS) and Tencent Cloud Database Encryption, which support format-preserving encryption for scenarios requiring data security without structural changes. These services help businesses comply with regulations like PCI DSS while maintaining operational efficiency.