Making Videos Password Secure

[Selahgal]

Wasn't sure where to post this here ... I probably know the answer to this, but here goes anyhow.

Is there a way to password secure a video and/or audio recording? I mean like any video format .... mpg, avi, wmv, .... any video or even audio formats?

I password secure many of my personal documents like journals. I would like to videotape some personal video journal entries, but I don't want anyone else viewing them.

As far as I know, that's not possible ... or is it?


Thanks!


Marci

[Mindblower]

A simple over-looked way is to change the extension. Also changing the name to something nobody would be interested in viewing is ideal. Believe you're only interested in keeping other family members from snooping, Mindblower!

[Selahgal]

It's as simple as changing it's extension??? Then when I want to look at them, I simply change the extension back?? Hmmm. Might work. Unless someone catches the trick! Heh!


Marci

[ozbloke]

Hey Marci - Yes, changing the file extension back and forward will work but it is a bit messy and as you say, someone might catch on.

There are programs around which are dedicated to this function.....I consider My Lockbox to be the best of the freebies, here is a link: http://www.fspro.net/my-lockbox/

Cheers......JIM

[Selahgal]

Thanks so much, Jim! I just downloaded it and I'll give it a go!

Helpful as always!


Marci


Mindblower: if you find a sarcasm font let me know! heh

[DavesComputerTips]

I problem with changing just the extension is that Media Player in Vista and Win7 will read the format of the file, not just the extension. As a result it will play the file, or alert you and offer to play the file.

A simple method, other than ozbloke's would be to use a zip or rar program and password protect the archives with a very strong password. Another option is TrueCrypt, which Ken explained very well in this article.

[ozbloke]

Hey Dave - I looked at your suggested method but doesn't that mean every time you wanted to view/play the movie you would need to unpack the files, play the movie and then in order to maintain their privacy compress them again?

JIM

[Ziggie]

Jim - you wouldn't have to repack them -- unless changes were made.

I was going to suggest TrueCrypt, but Dave beat me to it. As far as ease of use goes, Truecrypt would be the best way.

--zig

[OldElmerFudd]

Jim - you wouldn't have to repack them -- unless changes were made.

I was going to suggest TrueCrypt, but Dave beat me to it. As far as ease of use goes, Truecrypt would be the best way.

--zig

You're right about not repacking an archive. I usually put one into its own folder and then open.

Btw, isn't Truecrypt basically for disk and partition encryption? I use AxCrypt for files, although I've never tried video files. Probably would work, afaict. http://www.axantum.com/

Best

[Ziggie]

Yes, Truecrypt is file encryption, but it doesn't matter what files they are. Once encrypted and the volume is closed, they are ultimately password protected and as strong as encryption as you'll find anywhere.

I've done video, audio, docs, whatever in a truecrypt volume with no problems.

--chad

[Selahgal]

Just wanted to tell you I found a simple free program that is working GREAT! It's called MY FOLDER 2.4 and I downloaded it from http://virtual-protect.com/. I do my webcam journals and put them in that folder and they cannot be opened with my password.

Just in case anyone is looking for the same thing!

I DID try the suggestions and programs offered, but found them too complex and hard to use.


Thanks anyway!


Marci

[ozbloke]

Hey Marci - Thanks for the heads up mate. Based on your recommendation, I'll give MyFolder a plug in an upcoming DCT Newsletter.

Thanks again...your feedback is most welcome and much appreciated!!

Cheers....Jim