XClose

Information Security

Menu

Encryption on Smartphones and Tablet Devices

How do I encrypt smartphones and tablet devices?

If you store data, emails or photos on your portable device then you should encrypt the information to protect it. If the device is also protected with a PIN or password, encryption will further reduce the risk of your data being subject to unauthorised access. Check the manufacturer's instructions for more information to encrypt your mobile device.

Apple iPhone or iPad

For iPhone 3GS or later, iPod touch 3rd generation or later, and any iPad, you can encrypt following the steps on this link: protect the contents of your device . This means that if someone gets physical access to your device, they will also need your passcode to decrypt ( turning the scrambled data into readable, intelligible information) data stored on it, including contacts, instant messages or texts, call logs, and emails.

Most modern Apple devices encrypt their contents by default, however protection against someone obtaining your data by physically stealing your device, tying that encryption to a passphrase or code that only you an authorised persons know. See below for instructions on how to do this.

For devices running iOS 4–iOS 7:

  1. Open the General settings and choose Passcode (or iTouch & Passcode).
  2. Follow the prompts to create a passcode.

For devices running iOS 8-iOS 11

  1. Open the Settings app
  2. Tap Touch ID & Passcode
  3. Follow the prompts to create a passcode.

If your device is running iOS 8, disable Simple Passcode to create a code that is longer than 4 digits. With the release of iOS 9, Apple defaulted to a 6-digit passcode.

If your device is running iOS 8, we recommend that you disable Simple Passcode to create a code that is longer than 4 digits. With the release of iOS 9, Apple defaulted to a 6-digit passcode.

To customize your passcode, select "Passcode Options" and "Custom Alphanumeric Code."

To customise an existing passcode, select “Change Passcode” and then “Passcode Options.” We also recommend setting the “Require passcode” option to “Immediately,” which locks your device when not in use.

Once you've set a passcode, scroll down to the bottom of the Passcode settings page. You should see a message that says “Data protection is enabled.” This means that the device's encryption is now tied to your passcode, and that most data on your phone will need that code to unlock it.

Android devices

For android devices, there is an option in the settings that enables you to encrypt the device. For more details, refer to the relevant manufacturer or network provider support pages for your device or contract.

How do I encrypt Google Nexus devices?

Please visit this link for instructions:  https://support.google.com/nexus/answer/2844831?hl=en-GB

How do I encrypt Windows and other smartphone devices?

We recommend contacting Microsoft for assistance if you use a Windows phone and following the manufacturer’s instruction on other smart devices.