Forgot my password for the backup disk!

Hello,

I was trying to do a routine backup of my Macbook using an external HD but it seems the last time I did the back up, I encrypted it with a password that I somehow forgot to save. I am getting this password prompt; how can I get in or alternatively, how can I reformat the disk and create a new backup? Any help appreciated, thanks!

MacBook Pro 13", 10.14

Posted on Jun 11, 2019 12:38 AM

Similar questions

My Passport / Time Machine I am having difficulty backing up my MacBook Pro through Time Machine. It worked fine for nine months and stopped doing backups December 8th. Now it asks for my password to access "Backups of Carole's MacBook Pro". I don't know the password. It gives no alternative for "forgot password". Just cancel or enter. I need to back it up somehow so I can take it in for tech support. Help!
945 1
Lost password of Lacie external backup drive, set up with Time Machine I used Time Machine to setup and backup my MacBook Pro on my Lacie external backup drive, but I no longer recall the password to access the drive. Due to it being encrypted, there is no way of recovering the backup. I would to restore the external drive to factory settings, to be able to use it again. I contacted Seagate/Lacie support, and since I did the initial backup setup with Time Machine, they advised me to request support on this from Apple Support.
5057 2
Backup Disk Issues I want to restore my mac using a backup I created. The external drive its on is formatted as MAC OS Extended (Journaled) I restart my mac and hold command + r and select recover from time machine back up. When I select the disk I want to use to recover my mac it asks me to unlock it but it is not an encrypted disk. I do not need to enter a password when I open it on my desktop. A. Is there a way to resolve or get around this issue. B. If there is a password set on it and I did enter text in the hint field when I formatted it where could that text now be found?
614 2

1 reply

Ptaxey

Level 6

8,109 points

Jun 11, 2019 12:57 AM in response to PacNorWest

Unfortunately there is no cure for forgotten passwords from backup disks.

You can erase it and start new backup: How to erase a disk for Mac - Apple Support - check the bottom of the page ("Are you preparing a Time Machine backup disk or bootable installer?")

Then create a new backup: Back up your Mac with Time Machine - Apple Support

This thread has been closed by the system or the community team. You may vote for any posts you find helpful, or search the Community for additional answers.

Forgot my password for the backup disk!

Welcome to Apple Support Community

A forum where Apple customers help each other with their products. Get started with your Apple Account.

Learn more Sign up