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Ciphertext

What is Ciphertext?

The result of encryption performed on plaintext using an algorithm (cipher) and a key. Ciphertext is designed to be unintelligible without the corresponding decryption key.

Information Security

Frameworks that govern ciphertext

ISO 27001:2022View framework →NIST SP 800-53 Rev 5View framework →

What the standards actually require on ciphertext

Requirements naming ciphertext across 2 standards, quoted from the control text.

NIST SP 800-88 Rev 11 control

Cryptographic Erase (CE) sanitizes media by deleting or replacing the media encryption key used by self-encrypting drives, rendering ciphertext unrecoverable. Requires that all target data was encrypted before storage and the key destruction is verified.

MS-PURGE-5 · Cryptographic Erase →
PCI P2PE1 control

The decryption environment where account data is converted from ciphertext to plaintext must be logically isolated, hardened, and protected by strong access controls compliant with PCI DSS.

Domain-4.1 · Decryption Environment Logical Security →

Questions people ask about ciphertext

What is Ciphertext?
The result of encryption performed on plaintext using an algorithm (cipher) and a key. Ciphertext is designed to be unintelligible without the corresponding decryption key.
Why is Ciphertext important for compliance?
Ciphertext is a key concept in Information Security. Understanding ciphertext helps organizations meet regulatory requirements, reduce risk, and demonstrate due diligence during audits. Our compliance platform maps 686 frameworks with 311K cross-framework control mappings.
Which compliance frameworks address Ciphertext?
Ciphertext appears in the requirement text of NIST SP 800-88 Rev 1, PCI P2PE. Across these standards we have identified 2 controls that name it directly, each linked to the control text on the compliance platform.
Where can I learn more about Ciphertext?
Explore our compliance framework pages to see how ciphertext applies across different standards and regulations. Our implementation guides provide step-by-step guidance, and the compliance platform offers AI-powered analysis of how this concept maps across 686 frameworks.

See how Ciphertext applies across compliance frameworks

Our platform maps 686 frameworks with 311K cross-framework control mappings. Explore how this concept is addressed across standards.

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Written and maintained by Gerard Blokdyk, The Art of Service.