Encrypt an External Storage Device Using Disk Utility on Mac
How to encrypt a removable storage device with a Mac
Problem
A client who uses a Mac needs to protect the data stored in an external device, as the device might be stolen, lost, or inspected by untrusted authorities.
This data could be used against the client, who risks physical or emotional abuse, arrest, detainment, etc., or could be used against others in a similar way.
Solution
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Is the storage device already formatted for use by a Mac? If not, send this link to the client first.
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After the client has properly formatted their storage device, send this link to help them encrypt it.
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Remind the client to use a strong password, as the data they are trying to protect depends on it. Note that they must remember this password, as there will be no other way to recover the data once encrypted.
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Let the client know that encrypting drives takes time. If the disk they are encrypting is large, it may take hours - even overnight.