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Warning: check your PC’s Windows 11 encryption feature to make sure your data is not at risk
- Default drive encryption in Windows 11 24H2 has raised concerns about potential data loss risks if the Microsoft account linked to the encryption recovery key is inaccessible or deleted.
- Device Encryption, a simplified version of BitLocker for Windows 11 Home, is automatically enabled during Windows 11 24H2 setup with a Microsoft account, posing data access issues if the account is lost.
- Criticism has been directed at Microsoft for not adequately informing users about the implications of Device Encryption and the risk of data loss attached to Microsoft accounts.
- A Reddit post highlighted the concerns, emphasizing the importance of data availability alongside confidentiality in cybersecurity discussion.
- Device Encryption without redundant key backups could lead to catastrophic data loss, as noted by the Redditor MorCJul.
- The controversy stems from Microsoft's decision to automatically activate Device Encryption for new Windows 11 Home installations with a Microsoft account, potentially causing irretrievable data loss upon account deletion.
- Deleting a Microsoft account containing a Device Encryption recovery key without backups could result in inaccessible encrypted data on the system drive, leading to permanent data loss.
- Users are advised to exercise caution when handling Microsoft account deletions to prevent unintended loss of critical encryption keys.
- Microsoft should enhance transparency regarding Device Encryption during Windows 11 setup and provide clearer warnings about the implications of tied encryption keys to Microsoft accounts.
- Users can check the status of Device Encryption on Windows 11 Home (24H2) devices by navigating to Privacy & Security > Device Encryption in Settings, allowing for manual activation or deactivation.
- While Device Encryption can be disabled post-installation, caution is advised due to potential data loss risks associated with Microsoft account deletions.
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