Encryption detection and backup management

A method for managing backups, the method comprising:

• calculating a first entropy indicator at a first time for a collection of data stored in at least one memory;
• calculating a second entropy indicator at a second time for the collection of data;
• comparing the first entropy indicator with the second entropy indicator;
• and
• determining at least one of whether to back up the collection of data and whether to retain an earlier backup of the collection of data based on the comparison of the first entropy indicator with the second entropy indicator.

A computer-readable storage medium storing computer-executable instructions for managing backups, wherein when the computer-executable instructions are executed by a controller or a processor, the computer-executable instructions cause the controller or the processor to:

• calculate a first entropy indicator at a first time for a collection of data stored in at least one memory;
• calculate a second entropy indicator at a second time for the collection of data;
• compare the first entropy indicator with the second entropy indicator;
• and
• determine at least one of whether to back up the collection of data and whether to retain an earlier backup of the collection of data based on the comparison of the first entropy indicator with the second entropy indicator.

A host, comprising:

• an interface configured to communicate with at least one Data Storage Device (DSD);
• and
• a processor configured to:
• calculate a first entropy indicator at a first time for a collection of data stored in the at least one DSD;
• calculate a second entropy indicator at a second time for the collection of data;
• compare the first entropy indicator with the second entropy indicator;
• and
• determine at least one of whether to back up the collection of data and whether to retain an earlier backup of the collection of data based on the comparison of the first entropy indicator with the second entropy indicator.