ecryptfs-migrate-home

ecryptfs-migrate-home [-u user] [-h] [-V]

-u user
    Specifies the username of the account to migrate. If not specified, it defaults to the current user. It requires root privileges to specify other users.

-h
    Displays a help message describing the command's usage and options.

-V
    Displays the version number of the ecryptfs-utils package.

The `ecryptfs-migrate-home` command is designed to simplify the process of migrating an existing user's home directory to an encrypted home directory using eCryptfs. It automatically handles the necessary steps, such as backing up the existing unencrypted home directory, creating the encrypted home directory structure, copying the data, and configuring the system to use the encrypted home directory upon login.

This command is intended to be run by an administrator. Before running `ecryptfs-migrate-home` a backup of the user's home directory should be made for safety reasons. If something goes wrong during the migration, the backed-up data can be used to restore the original home directory.

The command streamlines encryption process and reduces the risk of data loss or corruption. It is a useful tool for system administrators seeking to enhance data security for user accounts without requiring manual intervention. The user will have to relogin so that the ecryptfs is mounted correctly.

This command should be used with caution. Data loss may occur if the process is interrupted or if there are errors during the migration. Always create a backup of the user's home directory before running this command. It requires the user to log out and back in to fully activate the encrypted home directory.

Before running `ecryptfs-migrate-home`, ensure you have a reliable backup of the user's home directory. The backup should ideally be stored on a separate physical drive or network location.

Consider using tools like `tar`, `rsync`, or dedicated backup solutions to create the backup.

In case of failure during the migration process, restore the backed-up home directory.

After restoring the home directory you must check the correct permissions.

The `ecryptfs-migrate-home` command is part of the eCryptfs-utils package.

eCryptfs itself has been in development for quite some time, offering file-level encryption for Linux systems. This specific utility aimed to simplify adoption by automating a common task: switching a user's home directory to use eCryptfs encryption. It's been available in many Linux distributions for several years and continues to be maintained to provide an easy migration path to encrypted home directories.

ecryptfsd(8), mount.ecryptfs(8), ecryptfs-setup-private(1), ecryptfs-unwrap-passphrase(1), ecryptfs-manager(1)