How to encrypt an SD card without the original device

Question

I need to encrypt an SD card but no longer have access to the original device it was used with. Are there tools or methods for encrypting an SD card on a different device without losing data?

Any step-by-step guidance or software recommendations for securely encrypting the card in this situation would be appreciated.

Answer 1

Yes, you can encrypt an SD card on a different device without the original device by using encryption software on a computer. 

1. Back Up Your Data

Before encrypting, back up all data on the SD card to prevent data loss in case of issues during the encryption process.

2. Use Disk Encryption Software

Tools like VeraCrypt and BitLocker allow for encryption of external drives, including SD cards.

Option 1: VeraCrypt

Download and Install VeraCrypt: Go to veracrypt.fr and install it.

Open VeraCrypt:

• Insert the SD card into your computer.
• In VeraCrypt, click on Create Volume > Encrypt a non-system partition/drive > Standard VeraCrypt volume.
• Select your SD card from the list of available drives.

Configure Encryption:

• Choose an encryption algorithm (e.g., AES).
• Enter and confirm a password.

Format or Encrypt in Place:

• VeraCrypt can encrypt the SD card in place without losing data, but it may require free space. Otherwise, you can format the card as an encrypted volume, which will erase data.

Once complete, the SD card is encrypted and can only be accessed by mounting it through VeraCrypt.

Option 2: BitLocker

Insert the SD Card into a Windows device that supports BitLocker.

Enable BitLocker:

• Open This PC, right-click on the SD card, and select Turn on BitLocker.

Set Password and Save Recovery Key:

• Choose a password to unlock the SD card, then save the recovery key in a secure place.

BitLocker will encrypt the SD card, making it accessible only with the password on compatible Windows devices