Using a cloud storage service like Google Drive, Dropbox, or OneDrive? It’s important to know that your files are not encrypted by default. This means your provider can access and potentially share them. If a security breach occurs, your data could be at risk.
Cryptomator is a tool that can help. It automatically encrypts your files before they’re uploaded to the cloud.
How does it work?
Cryptomator is free, open-source software that creates an encrypted vault for your files on your computer. Utilizing strong encryption algorithms (256-bit AES), Cryptomator secures your data within this vault.
It’s important to note that Cryptomator itself doesn’t upload your files. Your cloud provider’s application handles that:
- You save files to the Cryptomator vault.
- Cryptomator encrypts these files and places them in a folder synced with your cloud provider.
- Your cloud provider application uploads the encrypted files.
Accessing your files is simple. Just open your mounted vault, and Cryptomator automatically decrypts them for you.
After installation, a new volume appears in your file manager, allowing you to interact with your files as if they were stored locally. Your cloud provider only sees the encrypted versions:
What systems are supported?
Cryptomator is widely compatible, with support for Windows, MacOS, Linux, Android, and iOS. Use it on your desktop, laptop, smartphone, or tablet. The only requirement is that your cloud provider offers an app for your chosen platform to ensure your encrypted files stay in sync.
For instance, I use it with pCloud to secure my files, accessing them seamlessly from my Mac, iPhone, and iPad. While pCloud offers its own encryption, it comes at a price. I believe it’s more secure if they don’t hold the encryption keys, just in case a security incident occurs.
How much does it cost?
Cryptomator is both free and open-source, so there’s no cost to use it. The only exception is the iOS app, which offers additional features like file writing for a small fee. However, you can still use it for free to read files, and there’s a demo version available.
Conclusion
If you value the safety and security of your files stored in the cloud, Cryptomator is a strong option to consider. Its ease of use, open-source nature, and robust encryption provide peace of mind. Even if your cloud provider experiences a breach, your encrypted data remains protected, inaccessible without the encryption key.