Base64 Encoding vs Encryption
A dangerously common misconception is that Base64 provides security. It does not. Understanding this difference is crucial for security.
Base64 is NOT Encryption
Base64 provides zero security. Anyone can decode it instantly. Never use Base64 to 'hide' sensitive data. Encoding transforms data for compatibility. Encryption transforms data to be unreadable without a key. Base64 is encoding, not encryption. Basic HTTP authentication uses Base64-encoded credentials. They're trivially decodable—use HTTPS for protection.
When to Use Base64
Appropriate: Embedding binary in text formats, data URIs, email attachments, URL-safe transmission, serializing binary data. Inappropriate: Hiding passwords, protecting API keys, obfuscating sensitive data, making data "unreadable." Base64 is a format transformation, not a security measure.
Real Encryption
For data at rest: use AES-256-GCM with key management services. For data in transit: use TLS/HTTPS. For passwords: use bcrypt, scrypt, or Argon2. For digital signatures: use HMAC-SHA256 or RSA/ECDSA. For random generation: use cryptographically secure generators. Use established frameworks for security. Cryptography is complex.
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