In continuing with our series, this article will focus on protecting your data using encrypted disk images.

Encrypted disk images
The Disk Utility tool included in Mac OS X enables you to create encrypted disk images—using 128-bit or even stronger 256-bit AES encryption—so you can safely email valuable documents, files, and folders to friends and colleagues; save the encrypted disk image to CD or DVD; or store it on the local system or a network file server.

A disk image is a file that appears as a volume on your hard drive; it can be copied, moved, or opened. When the disk image is encrypted, any files or folders placed in it are encrypted automatically.

For the corporate executive or road warrior, using encrypted images can be a secure way of transporting data from place to place.

In the Corporate Environment
Using disk images within the corporate environment is a great way to store or transport your sensitive data. Working with data that needs to be transferred via Courier (as it’s too big to send via electronic means – in a short period of time) or by sending through from point A to point B electronically whilst encrypted adds another layer of security.

Creating Disk Images

• Information on how to create an encrypted disk image is available here.
• A good tutorial – step by step can be found here.
• And, one more can be found here.

Password Security – One thing you need to know.

When you encrypt your disk images, you need to use secure passwords. If not, then your data is only as secure as your password.

One more thing.
DON’T FORGET YOUR PASSWORD! If you do, then your data is lost. Trying to “un-encrypt” either 128-Bit or 256-Bit AES encryption is not impossible.

It is almost impossible but it will take a long long time……

Warm Regards,
Scott Malpass
Aquafruit Media.