Encryption is the process of encoding all user data on an Android device using symmetric encryption keys. Once a device is encrypted, all user-created data is automatically encrypted before committing it to disk and all reads automatically decrypt data before returning it to the calling process.

Should I encrypt my Android phone?

Encryption stores your phone’s data in an unreadable, seemingly scrambled form. … (On Android 5.1 and above, encryption doesn’t​ require​ a PIN or password, but it’s highly recommended since not having one would reduce the effectiveness of the encryption.) Encryption protects the sensitive data on your phone.

What happens when I encrypt my Android phone?

Once an Android device is encrypted, all data stored on the device is locked behind the PIN code, fingerprint, pattern, or password known only to its owner. Without that key, neither Google nor law enforcement can unlock a device.