Master the Art of Securing Your Mac Files: A Step-by-Step Guide to Hiding Files and Folders on macOS

How to Keep Your Mac Files and Folders Private and Secure

When you set up your brand new Mac, you’re typically asked to lock it down with a password, Touch ID, or Apple Watch authorization. But, what about when you want to lend your MacBook to a friend or family member, or show them a slideshow of your recent trip? How can you prevent them from accidentally opening files and folders you’d rather keep private?

The Solution: Hidden Files and Folders

These scenarios are where hidden files and folders come into play. They won’t show up in Finder during regular browsing, and with the help of a third-party program, you can lock them away behind a password, too.

Encrypto: The Best Option for Securing Your Files

If you want to lock away specific files and folders on your Mac, so they can’t be accessed without a password, then Encrypto is the way to go. It’s free to install and use, and it’s as straightforward as can be:

• Launch the Encrypto app.
• Drag across a file or folder you want to hide (or choose File > Open).
• Specify a password to protect the selected data.
• Click Encrypt.

You’ll then get a second, encrypted file with the folder or files locked away inside, which you can save anywhere on your system. Encrypto also includes easy sharing options if you need to send these files or folders to someone else.

The Process in a Nutshell:

• Launch Encrypto.
• Drag a file or folder into the app, or choose File > Open.
• Enter a password to protect the selected data.
• Click Encrypt.
• Get a second, encrypted file containing the protected data.
• Save the encrypted file anywhere on your system.

Why Encrypto?

Encrypto is an excellent option for securing your files and folders on a Mac. It’s free, easy to use, and offers end-to-end encryption, ensuring your data remains safe and private.

Tips and Tricks:

• Create an encrypted locker of files with Encrypto, then hide it using Finder or Terminal options.
• Set up multiple users on your Mac, each with their own set of encrypted files and folders.
• Use Encrypto to secure your entire disk using the Encrypt Disk feature.

With Encrypto, you can rest assured that your files and folders are safe and private, even when you’re not around to watch them.