Cryptocurrency Q&A
Should phone numbers be hashed?
Should phone numbers be hashed?
KimchiQueen
Thu Oct 03 2024
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6 answers
1262
Should phone numbers be hashed in order to protect user privacy and security? On one hand, hashing phone numbers can help prevent unauthorized access and misuse of personal information. It can also ensure that sensitive data is not stored in plain text, making it more difficult for hackers to steal or exploit. However, on the other hand, hashing phone numbers may also create challenges for legitimate users who need to access their accounts or verify their identities. Additionally, there are concerns about the potential for collisions and the difficulty of reversing the hashing process if needed. So, what is the best approach to balancing security and usability when it comes to hashing phone numbers?
6 answers
CryptoPioneer
Sat Oct 05 2024
The Federal Trade Commission has issued a warning regarding the practice of hashing personal identifiers such as email addresses and phone numbers. Despite the common belief that hashing ensures anonymity, the FTC has emphasized that it is not a foolproof method.
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Martino
Sat Oct 05 2024
Hashing involves converting data into a numerical value that is difficult to trace back to its original form. While this process obscures the identity of the individual or device, it does not completely eliminate the risk of being tracked.
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Tommaso
Sat Oct 05 2024
The FTC warns that hashing algorithms can be used to create a unique digital fingerprint for each piece of data. This fingerprint can then be used to track an individual or device across multiple platforms and over time.
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Riccardo
Sat Oct 05 2024
The use of hashing in email addresses and phone numbers is particularly concerning as these identifiers are often used for authentication and verification purposes. If an attacker gains access to hashed data, they can potentially use it to impersonate the individual or device.
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NebulaChaser
Fri Oct 04 2024
The FTC recommends that individuals and organizations take additional steps to protect their privacy beyond hashing. This includes using encryption to secure data in transit and at rest, as well as implementing robust access controls and authentication mechanisms.
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