How to encrypt your Android or iOS Mobile Device?

Encrypt Your iPhone or iPad Data

1. Set up a passcode to lock your device under Settings > Passcode.

2. That's it. Wasn't that easy?

The PIN or passcode not only creates a lock screen, it also encrypts the iPhone or iPad data. Not all of it, however. The things that are encrypted in this dead-easy method are your Messages, email messages and attachments, and data from some apps that offer data encryption. You definitely should have a passcode set up, though, and not just the default 4-digit one. Use a stronger, longer passcode or passphrase in your Passcode settings (at least 6 digits long). Even just two digits more make your iPhone much more secure.

Encrypt Your Android Smartphone or Tablet

On Android devices, the lock screen and the device encryption are separate but related. You can't encrypt your Android device without the screen lock turned on, and the encryption password is tied to the screen lock passcode.

1. Unless you have a full battery charge, plug in your device before beginning.

2. Set a password of at least six characters that contains at least one number if you haven't already done this. Because this is also your screen unlock code, choose one that's easy to enter.

3. Click Settings > Security > Encrypt Device. On some phones, you may need to choose Storage > Storage encryption or Storage > Lock screen and security > Other security settings to find the encrypt option. Depending upon your Android version and manufacturer, you may need to use the search option available on top of the settings menu.

4. Follow the onscreen instructions to complete the process. 

Your device may restart several times during the encryption process. Wait until the entire process is finished before using it. 

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