Advantages of S/MIME and PGP
This speaks in favor of using S/MIME and PGP
The identity of the sender can be verified
The email can be checked for integrity or manipulation can be detected later
Other options
In addition to the well-known standardized procedures, there japan number dataset are other options for encryption or secure transmission of data, such as the pull procedure. In this case, the recipient logs into the sender's system and receives the corresponding notification after authorization. In the push procedure, however, the email is converted, encrypted and sent to the recipient as an attachment (e.g. PDF, Zip or HTML) of a carrier email.
Where are encrypted emails particularly important and where are they not?
Encrypted shipping of confidential content is important not only for the legally compliant application of the GDPR, but also for many customers and partners. However, it always depends on the individual case. For example, general encryption is not required for order confirmations. But especially for more specific orders, some customers are certainly happy that it is not necessarily possible to trace what was ordered. Correspondence on important personal matters, e.g. with a lawyer, can also require encryption. Art. 32 of the GDPR should be used as a guide here, which speaks of the "likelihood of occurrence and severity of the risk to the rights and freedoms of natural persons".
However, email encryption is required when transferring larger amounts of data. Alternatively, secure data transfer via other channels could also be considered.
Alternatives to encrypted emails
In addition to transferring data via email, there is also the option of sharing data via so-called file hosting or cloud storage services. This is storage space in a cloud. Well-known examples of this are Dropbox (public cloud) and ownCloud (private cloud). These services offer the option of storing content to be communicated on a cloud server to which only the creator has access. However, it is also possible to make folders and documents accessible to other people. To do this, the folder must be shared with the authorized person. This person is then given access via an automatically generated link. Access via link can only be valid for 1 or 2 days, or the participant must log into the cloud themselves. This makes it more difficult for hackers to gain access.
Other advantages are that data can be exchanged quickly and easily via file hosting systems. The creator can also assign rights to invited people and documents are automatically synchronized when they are edited.