Asking for help on encrytion...

[cadu]

Hi,

Actually it isn't related directly to XYplorer, but I consider users of this forum very evolved and sharp about software and systems in general.

I am looking for a software that provide protection (password) for my data. I don't know whether encrypt the data should be better. My problem is that I have important data that I wouldn't like be accessed for others, like a thief that could stole my notebook or external drive (it is common in Brazil unfortunately).

I found information about TrueCrypt (http://www.truecrypt.org), but on reading users comments few people critic the possibility of to have the data corrupted, recovery lost password isn't handy, etc.

So, may anyone give me tips about how to deal with this issue of protect the data through password or an efficient encryption software? What should be better (password or encryption)? Should be TrueCrypt a good deal?

Many thanks in advance!

[highend]

Using truecrypt for more than 5 years on partitions, full hdds, etc. Never had any data loss.

Retrieving a lost password isn't handy?
It's impossible (in terms of time frames) if you use a strong one. And that's a feature...

Portable, scriptable, free.
What else do you want?

[cadu]

Many thanks "highend". You gave me confidence I was needing to try "TrueCrypt" !

I would appreciate a further explanation to a specific backup case you maybe have experienced:

a) I use JustCloud as a internet storage backup (http://www.justcloud.com/secure-cloud-storage). They mentions that "Our 256bit SSL encryption not only encrypts your files on upload to the server, but also during the storage process. [...] Encryption is the process whereby you use a program to scramble data in a way which can only be rectified by using a key".
=> So, considering I will have all my local drive encrypted by "TrueCrypt" by default. Then, I will backup it to JustCloud that mentions to encrypt the data as well. What should be the expected output? Could I proceed with it?

b) I proceed with backup to external drive as well (also, backup from an external drive to another). I use the software Syncback to it. So, yet considering all my local drive will be encrypted by "TrueCrypt", what should be expected when this data is transferred from my local computer to an external hard drive? Will it continue encrypted by "TrueCrypt"?

Best,
Cadu

[highend]

What should be the expected output? Could I proceed with it?

What "output"?

When a tc container is accessed (you have to enter a password / use a keyfile when that happens), the tc program decrypts files on the fly when they are read. If don't plan to place a "real" tc container file in your online backup, all files will still be crypted locally through tc and online through your backup provider.

Will it continue encrypted by "TrueCrypt"?

No. If your destination isn't encrypted in any way (either by tc or a different program) all files are not encrypted.

Sorry, this has really nothing to do with XY in any way. Your questions have been raised multiple times in the tc forum. Start by reading their FAQ.

[cadu]

Thank you!