When traveling domestically or internationally, your personal electronic devices may be searched at airports or borders. To protect your private information, it is recommended to encrypt your device(s) and back them up before traveling in case they are seized. According to the Customs and Border Protection (CBP) website, CBP officers have the authority to search laptops, cell phones, and other electronic devices. Be mindful of any sensitive information stored on your devices while traveling.
Warning: Encryption is the process of converting information into a coded format to prevent unauthorized access. It ensures that only those with the correct decryption key can read or understand the data. Encryption protects sensitive information, maintains privacy, and secures communication by making data unreadable to anyone without the proper authorization.
Warning: During encryption, you may be required to create a password, PIN, unlock code, or secret key. It is crucial to store this information securely, as losing it will prevent you from accessing your encrypted data. To avoid permanent data loss, it is strongly recommended to back up your data before proceeding with encryption.
iPhone/iPad/iOS:
Note: Encrypting your iPhone is easy because iOS automatically encrypts your device as soon as you set up a passcode.
Step 1: Set Up a Passcode (Required for Encryption)
- Open Settings.
- Scroll down and tap Face ID & Passcode (or Touch ID & Passcode on older models).
- Tap Turn Passcode On (if not already enabled).
- Choose a strong 6-digit passcode (or tap Passcode Options for a custom alphanumeric passcode).
- Confirm your passcode.
Step 2: Confirm Your iPhone is Encrypted
- Go to Settings > Face ID & Passcode.
- Scroll to the bottom.
- If you see “Data protection is enabled”, your iPhone is encrypted!
Once a passcode is set, your iPhone is automatically encrypted.
MacBook Pro/MacBook Air/macOS:
Note: macOS has built-in encryption called FileVault, which secures your entire disk and prevents unauthorized access.
How does FileVault work on a Mac?
Step 1: Check if FileVault is Enabled
Before turning it on, check if it’s already enabled (some Macs come with it on by default).
- Click the Apple menu () > System Settings (or System Preferences in older macOS versions).
- Go to Privacy & Security.
- Scroll down to FileVault (under Security section).
- If it says FileVault is on, your Mac is already encrypted.
Step 2: Enable FileVault (If It’s Off)
- Go to Apple menu () > System Settings > Privacy & Security.
- Click FileVault.
- Click Turn On FileVault.
- Choose how you want to unlock your disk if you forget your password:
- Use your iCloud account (easier for most users).
- Create a recovery key (write this down and store it safely, because if you lose it, you might not be able to access your Mac).
- Click Continue, then follow the instructions.
Step 3: Wait for Encryption to Finish
- Your Mac will encrypt the disk in the background. This may take some time, but you can continue using your computer while it happens.
- To check the status, go to System Settings > Privacy & Security > FileVault.
Step 4: Verify That Encryption is Working
Once encryption is complete:
- Restart your Mac.
- You will need to enter your password at startup before macOS loads (this confirms FileVault is working).
Microsoft Windows:
Note: Encrypting your Windows computer helps protect your data from unauthorized access.
How Does BitLocker Work on a Windows Computer?
Step 1: Check if BitLocker is Available
- Press Win + R, type
control, and hit Enter to open Control Panel.
- Click System and Security > BitLocker Drive Encryption.
- If BitLocker is available, you'll see an option to "Turn on BitLocker."
Step 2: Enable BitLocker
- In Control Panel > System and Security > BitLocker Drive Encryption, find your system drive (usually C:).
- Click Turn on BitLocker.
- Choose how to unlock your drive:
- Use a password (recommended)
- Use a USB flash drive (for key storage)
- Choose how to back up your recovery key:
- Save it to your Microsoft account
- Save it to a USB drive
- Save it as a file
- Print the key (keep it in a safe place)
- Choose encryption mode:
- New PCs (Windows 10/11): Select "New encryption mode (XTS-AES)".
- Older PCs or external drives: Select "Compatible mode".
- Click Start Encrypting. The process may take time but runs in the background.
Step 3: Verify Encryption
- Once finished, go back to BitLocker settings.
- It should say "BitLocker On" for your drive.
Android/AndroidOS:
Note: Encrypting your Android phone is a great way to protect your data. Most modern Android devices are encrypted by default, but it's good to check and ensure your device is secure.
Step 1: Check If Your Android Phone is Already Encrypted
- Go to Settings.
- Tap Security & privacy (or just Security, depending on your device).
- Look for Encryption & credentials (or Encrypt phone).
- If it says "Encrypted", your phone is already secure.
Step 2: Encrypt Your Android Phone (If Not Already Encrypted)
How to Encrypt Your Device
- Go to Settings.
- Tap Security & privacy > Encryption & credentials.
- If your phone is not encrypted, tap Encrypt phone.
- Read the warning (Encryption is permanent; you can't undo it without a factory reset).
- Tap Encrypt phone again and wait.
Step 3: Enable Additional Security Features
Turn on Screen Lock:
- Settings > Security > Screen Lock
- Choose PIN, Password, or Pattern (Avoid "Swipe to unlock").
Enable Secure Start-Up (If Available):
- Settings > Security > Secure Start-Up
- Requires a PIN or password when the phone turns on.
Encrypt SD Card (Optional):
- Some Androids allow SD card encryption under Settings > Security.
- If you remove an encrypted SD card, it won’t work in another device.
The information above was generated using AI technology. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy and reliability, you are encouraged to verify details independently and use discretion when relying on this information. Bates College assumes no liability for any errors, omissions, or consequences arising from the use of this content.