IBM (IBM) is looking to tackle data encryption challenges through a new technique called “fully homomorphic encryption,” a solution that aims to further protect data privacy and strengthen cloud computing security. The move comes as cloud services providers (CSPs) and their customers continue to worry about NSA spying activities, hacks like the recent Target security breach, and other privacy issues.

Big Blue said this type of encryption leverages a mathematical object known as an “ideal lattice” that will assist vendors with computations on client data without revealing the original data.

“Fully homomorphic encryption will enable companies to confidently share data and more easily and quickly overcome challenges or take advantage of emerging opportunities,” said Craig Gentry, an IBM research who is also the co-inventor on the patent.

We can expect to see the development of more data encryption techniques throughout 2014. As more stories about data breaches hit home to consumers, like Target (TGT)’s credit card debacle a few weeks ago, more security vendors will find look to find ways to protect consumers from cyber criminals.

IBM received a patent (U.S. Patent #8,565,435) for this data encryption technology. 

Separately, IBM was awarded a patent back in November for a technique that combines distributed cloud services with local IT systems, connecting cloud-based services with local data.