Blog | G5 Cyber Security

DiskCryptor to VeraCrypt Decryption

G5 Cyber Security

TL;DR

Yes, you can often decrypt a DiskCryptor-encrypted hard drive using VeraCrypt. However, it’s not always automatic and depends on the specific DiskCryptor settings used. This guide explains how to attempt decryption.

Decrypting DiskCryptor with VeraCrypt: A Step-by-Step Guide

  1. Understand Compatibility: VeraCrypt is designed to be compatible with many older encryption systems, including DiskCryptor. However, the success rate depends on whether DiskCryptor used standard algorithms and settings.
    • DiskCryptor using AES, Twofish, Serpent or similar algorithms are most likely to work.
    • If DiskCryptor used a custom algorithm or non-standard parameters, decryption may be impossible without the original DiskCryptor software.
  2. Download and Install VeraCrypt: If you haven’t already, download the latest version of VeraCrypt from the official website and install it.
  3. Launch VeraCrypt: Open the VeraCrypt application.
  4. Select a Drive Letter: In the main VeraCrypt window, choose an available drive letter to mount the decrypted volume. This doesn’t need to be the original drive letter used by DiskCryptor.
  5. Choose ‘Select Device’: Click the ‘Select Device’ button.
  6. Locate Your Hard Drive: A window will appear listing your available drives. Carefully select the hard drive that was encrypted with DiskCryptor. Be absolutely sure you choose the correct drive! Incorrect selection could lead to data loss.
  7. Attempt Standard VeraCrypt Decryption: Click ‘OK’. VeraCrypt will now attempt to decrypt the drive using its standard decryption methods.
    • If DiskCryptor used a password, you’ll be prompted for it. Enter the correct password.
    • VeraCrypt will try various algorithms automatically.
  8. If Standard Decryption Fails: If VeraCrypt can’t decrypt the drive immediately, proceed to the next step.
  9. Specify DiskCryptor Algorithm (if known): Click ‘Options’. In the Options window, go to the ‘Encryption’ tab.
    • If you know which algorithm DiskCryptor used (e.g., AES), select it from the ‘Encryption Mode’ dropdown menu.
    • If you also know the key size (e.g., 128-bit, 256-bit), set that as well.
  10. Try Again: Click ‘OK’ to save your changes and then click ‘Mount’. VeraCrypt will attempt decryption again using the specified algorithm.
  11. Advanced Options (if still failing): If decryption continues to fail, you might need to experiment with other settings in the VeraCrypt options.
    • ‘Headerless’ option: Try checking the ‘Headerless’ box if DiskCryptor didn’t use a standard header.
    • ‘Hidden Volume’: If you suspect a hidden volume was used, explore the advanced options related to hidden volumes (this is more complex).
  12. Data Recovery as Last Resort: If all attempts fail, data recovery might be your only option. This can be expensive and isn’t guaranteed to succeed.

Important Notes:

Exit mobile version