We recorded the presentations at the MBS Xojo Conference in April 2026 and here is the Protecting Sensitive Data in Xojo: Practical Encryption Techniques Using MBS Plugins by Bill OKeefe.

Encryption is essential for protecting sensitive user and business data—but implementing it correctly is often confusing. In this practical session, building secure, efficient encryption workflows directly in Xojo using the MBS plugins will be shown.

Using the DICOM medical image format as a complex but relatable data model, we’ll explore how to handle mixed-type binary structures, manage endian differences, and work with Xojo’s MemoryBlock class to prepare data for encryption. From there, you’ll see real examples of AES-256 file encryption and decryption, key generation, chained encryption blocks, and performance optimization with the MBS Crypto classes.

Along the way we’ll cover common pitfalls (such as re-using IVs or ignoring data structure), when to use symmetric vs. asymmetric encryption, and how to keep your code aligned with regulatory standards such as FIPS 140 or HIPAA—even if you’re not working in medicine.

Attendees will receive a download code for working code fragments covering file, text, and database encryption techniques ready for adaptation in their own projects.
by Bill OKeefe

Watch on YouTube. All videos go into the playlist for the conference.