How To Encrypt iPhone Backup for Enhanced Data Security

Part 1: What Is an iPhone Encrypted Backup?

An iPhone encrypted backup is like a lock for the valuable data stored on your device. You can think of it as a password that only you know.

When you back up your iPhone, it creates a copy of all your details, like photos, contacts, and apps. But here's the thing: your iPhone backup isn't encrypted by default. That means anyone who gets their hands on it could access your data.

What Is Included and Excluded if You Encrypt iPhone Backup?

If you encrypt an iPhone backup, it can store even more information than unencrypted backups. They can include your saved passwords, website history, wifi settings, health data, and call history. These are the info that matters to you and that you want to keep private.

Now, here's an important thing to remember. Some sensitive data doesn't get locked up in an iPhone-encrypted backup. Your Face ID, Touch ID, or device passcode won't be part of it.

Why Encrypt iPhone Backup?

You might ask, "Why should I encrypt my iPhone backup?" Below are some reasons for you to consider:

• Enhanced Data Security and Privacy

To encrypt iPhone backup means adding extra security to protect your personal information. Also, encrypted backups use advanced encryption algorithms to lock and encode your data, ensuring it remains confidential. It prevents others from unauthorized access to your data.

• Convenience Without Compromise

Despite the added security, an iPhone-encrypted backup is still convenient. You can restore your data quickly whenever you need it.

Part 2: How To Encrypt iPhone Backup on Your Computer?

Let's learn how to encrypt iPhone backup step-by-step on your desktop.

• Step 1: Do either of the following:
• For macOS Catalina 10.15 or later, go to Finder.
• For macOS Mojave 10.14 or earlier or a PC, launch iTunes.
• Step 2: Take your USB cable and connect your iPhone device to your computer.
• Step 3: Search for your device's name in the list on your computer.
• Step 4: Depending on your computer, do one of the following:

• Go to the Generaltab bar, then select the Encrypt Local Backup checkbox from the Backups

• Click Summaryunder the Settings section in the left-side navigation pane. Then select the Encrypt Local Backup

• Step 5: In the Set Password dialogue box, enter your chosen password, re-enter it to verify, and click Set Password to confirm.

• Step 6: Here's how you can view the list of successfully encrypted iPhone backups.
• For macOS Catalina 10.15 or later: Go to Finder > General, then click "Manage Backups..." at the lower navigation pane.

• For macOS Mojave 10.14 or earlier PC with iTunes: Go to Edit > Preferencesfrom the menu bar at the upper navigation pane of the iTunes window. Next, click the Devices tab to see a lock icon next to your device's name and the backup creation date and time.

Note:

To encrypt iPhone backup, you should also choose a password that you'll remember. Otherwise, you can't access your iPhone backup without it.

Part 3: Forgot iTunes Backup Password? Unlock and Backup iPhone With Wondershare Dr.Fone 

If you can't remember your iPhone device's encrypted backup password, you can't access it normally. But with Wondershare Dr.Fone, you can remove the iTunes backup encryption setting without losing data. Dr.Fone's Screen Unlock feature works with all iOS versions starting from iOS 7.0.

More Features To Address Other Encrypt iPhone Backup Concerns

Here are other functionalities that can assist you with concerns related to your iOS device.

• Backup Data

Data Dr.Fone also offers a convenient way to back up your iOS data. You can automatically and wirelessly back up your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch without overwriting previous backups. This efficiency ensures faster backups and maximizes your available storage capacity. With Dr.Fone, you can back up 24 data types, including photos, videos, contacts, notes, and more.

• Recover Data

Dr.Fone is not just about unlocking backups, and it's also good at data recovery. It works in different situations: when you delete something by mistake, your device gets damaged, or you can't sync your backup. Dr.Fone can recover your data directly from your device, iTunes, or even iCloud backups.

Supported Operating Systems

Dr.Fone is compatible with Windows 7 or newer and macOS X 10.8 & higher.

Pricing Plans

Wondershare provides free trial versions, allowing you to explore its features before committing to a purchase.

Upgrade to Dr.Fone Full Toolkit for enhanced functionality and more features.

• For individuals:$99.95 per year, which includes features like Screen Unlock, Data Recovery, and more.
• For teams:$195.93 for one user with 6-10 mobile devices on 1 PC.
• For students:Benefit from a 1-year license starting at $69.95.

Troubleshooting Encrypted iPhone Backup: What To Do if You Forget the Password

Learn how to access your saved files if you tried to encrypt the iPhone backup feature but forgot your password.

• Step 1: Go to the official website of Wondershare Dr.Fone and download the desktop app to your computer. Proceed to install and launch the Dr.Fone app to start.
• Step 2: On the Toolbox homepage, click Screen Unlock.
• Step 3: Click on Remove iTunes Backup Encryption.

• Step 4: Follow the in-app instructions to connect your iOS device to your computer.

• Step 5: Once your device is connected, click Remove Now.

• Step 6: A dialogue box called Checking will appear, showing you the progress of the removal process.

• Step 7: If Dr.Fone clears the encryption from your iPhone backup, it will display Remove Successfully! Click Done to close the window when the process is complete.

You have successfully removed the encryption from your iPhone backup using Wondershare Dr.Fone. Your backup is no longer encrypted and accessible without a password.

Part 4: Tips for Preventing Future Issues With iPhone Encrypted Backup Passwords

It's essential to make some effort even though you know how to encrypt iPhone backup. Let's explore some tips to keep your data safe and secure.

Create a Strong and Secure Password

Your iPhone encrypted backup needs a strong and secure password. Avoid using simple passwords like your name or birthdate. Instead, create a password with mixed letters, numbers, and special characters. Make it something only you can remember, which others can't easily guess.

Store Your Password in a Safe Place

Once you have a secure password, it's crucial to keep it safe. Ensure you don't record it in a place accessible to others. Consider storing it securely, like a password-protected document on your computer or a locked drawer. This way, you'll always have access to your password when needed.

Use Password Management Tools

If you have trouble remembering passwords, consider using password management tools. These tools can store your encryption passwords and help you manage them. They can make your life easier by tracking all your important passwords.

Maintain Regular Backups and Multiple Copies

This technique ensures that you have the latest copy of your data in case anything happens to your device. Online backups, like iCloud backups, are convenient and automatic. Offline or local backups, such as using Finder on your computer or third-party software, provide an extra layer of security. Keep online and offline backups to cover all your bases and protect your precious data.