How To encrypt Private/ Sensitive data using TrueCrypt

Executive Summary:

TrueCrypt is a free open source disk encryption software that works on both Windows and Linux platforms. Data stored on an encrypted volume cannot be read (decrypted) without using the correct password/keyfile(s) or correct encryption keys.

Download and install TrueCrypt.

Once TrueCrypt is installed start TrueCrypt application.

The main TrueCrypt window will appear, click on Create Volume button to start the volume creation wizard.

A TrueCrypt volume can reside in a file, which is also called Container. Select first option to create a TrueCrypt volume within a file.

As the option is selected by default click next.

Two types of volume can be created either Standard or Hidden. In this example we will choose the Standard TrueCrypt Volume and click Next.

Specify location and the file name of the ‘container’.

NOTE: TrueCrypt container is just like any normal file, It can be deleted or moved as any normal file.

Lets call the container ’ My Volume’ and save.

Click Next

Select the type of Encryption Algorithm and click Next.

Choose the size of the ‘container’ and press Next.

Specify the password to access and mount this ‘container’.

Format the volume now. TrueCrypt gathers random information from your system including the location of your mouse pointer and uses this information to format the location you selected earlier.

NOTE: When you hit the “format” button, you are not formatting or erasing your hard drive. You are ONLY formatting the drive location file which in this case would be the ‘My Volume’.

Exit from the Volume Created box.

To access the created container which is ‘My Volume’

In TrueCrypt, choose "Select File" and navigate to the volume file ‘My Volume’ and click on Mount.

Enter the correct password, this will mount a virtual drive, which you can see in ‘My Computer’.

Copy files which you want to make secure/private and paste in the new virtual drive.

The files which are in virtual drive can only be accessed after entering correct password.

Restart computer to check.

Virtual drive is no longer available.

To access private files again follow the same procedure and mount ‘My Volume’.

Conclusion:

TrueCrypt is an excellent option for the encryption requirements. It is absolutely free, and being an open-source software of repute, you can be sure of its safety part. However, if you decide to use it, just remember that you MUST NOT forget your password, otherwise your encrypted files and encrypted data are gone forever! 

From,
CyCops India Team