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Frequently asked questions about the SD Card Encryption feature

Q&A of functional explanation or specification parameters
Updated 09-16-2025 08:30:35 AM Number of views for this article81
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SD Card Encryption protects your privacy by ensuring recorded videos stored on your microSD card are only viewable in the Tapo app. If your camera is lost or stolen, this feature prevents anyone from accessing your private footage by physically removing the SD card.

Q1: How do I enable SD Card Encryption for my Tapo Camera?

A1:

Step 1. Ensure the microSD card is correctly inserted and storage settings are configured. Click How to install an SD card to Tapo camera for detailed instructions.

Step 2. Open the Tapo app, go to your Device Settings > Storage & Recording > Local Storage.

Step 3. Tap on SD Card Encryption and follow the app instructions to set it up.

Q2: How can I read an encrypted SD card on another device?

A2:

  • For a non-Tapo device (PC) or a Tapo camera that doesn't support encryption:

You must disable encryption first. Reinsert the card into the original camera, go to SD Card Encryption in the Tapo app, and disable the feature. Then you can use it on another device.

  • For another Tapo camera that supports encryption:

Insert the card, open the Tapo app for that camera, and enter the correct password when prompted to access the SD card.

Q3: What can I do if I forgot my SD card encryption password?

A3: Reinsert the SD card into the original camera where encryption was enabled. Open the Tapo app, go to this camera's SD Card Encryption settings page to view your password.

Note: If the original camera is defective and cannot be accessed via the Tapo app, the only solution is to format the SD card, which will erase all data permanently.

Therefore, we strongly recommend that you remember your password after you enable the encryption function.

Q4: Why did I receive an "SD Card Encryption Disabled" notification after inserting an SD card?

A4: This notification indicates that the newly inserted SD card has compatibility issues that prevent the encryption feature from functioning properly. To ensure continuous recording functionality, the camera has automatically disabled encryption for this card.

To successfully enable SD card encryption, we recommend that you use a compatible, high-quality SD card.

Click What type of microSD card does Tapo/Kasa Camera support? to get a list of tested and approved cards.

Q5: What should I do if my Tapo camera doesn't recognize the SD card?

A5: Please check if this card was previously encrypted in another Tapo camera.

  • If yes: You must put it back into the original camera, open the Tapo app, and disable encryption.
  • If no, and it's a new SD card or was never encrypted: Follow Camera does not recognize the microSD card to troubleshoot.

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