TrueCrypt
TrueCrypt: An Overview
This document describes what the TrueCrypt program does and, in general terms, how it is used. The following topics are covered:
About TrueCrypt
TrueCrypt is a program that allows you to create a space, called a volume, either as a file on an existing drive or on a device such as a USB drive. Once you have accessed the space - mounted the volume - it looks like other drives with its own drive letter, making it very easy to use.
This volume is secure in that files stored in it are encrypted and cannot be opened or read without using a password to connect to the space. You can then use this space to store sensitive data and files.
How TrueCrypt Works
TrueCrypt encrypts files as they are saved to the volume without you having to do anything. Then, when you open a file that has been saved to the volume, TrueCrypt unencrypts it as it opens, again without you having to do anything.
The entire volume is encrypted including folder names, file names and their contents.
Password Protection
The security that TrueCrypt provides is inherent in and relies on password protection. Keep the following in mind as you establish a password for your TrueCrypt volume:
- You should choose a pass phrase of 20 characters or more
- The strength of the encryption is increased by the length of the pass phrase
- Forgotten pass phrases cannot be recovered or reset
- Lost or forgotten pass phrases mean files in an encrypted volume cannot be accessed - ever
Using TrueCrypt
To use TrueCrypt you will need to do the following:
- Request the software (call the LTS Help Desk, 36-5711)
- Create a TrueCrypt space, called a volume, as a file on a drive or on a storage device
- Map to the volume file or device. This is referred to as “mounting the volume” and must be done each time you want to work with files located there.
Deciding Whether to Use TrueCrypt
A portable device such as a laptop computer or removable storage media such as a USB drive can be lost or stolen. Sensitive information or files stored on them, therefore, are at risk.
Because a TrueCrypt volume must be mapped each time you want to access the files located there, and because it is password protected, files stored in it are safe even if the computer or media is stolen.
