Private file protection
What should I check before lending or repairing my PC?
Short answer
Save work and lock the vault, check that sensitive files are not scattered across Desktop, Downloads, or sync folders, and sign out of accounts that need not be exposed. Prepare repairs using data minimization.
Do more than close windows
A borrower or technician may have plenty of time to browse normal folders. Check file copies, browser downloads, messaging caches, and cloud synchronization, then confirm the vault is locked.
If repair does not require your original data, follow the manufacturer's recommended backup and service preparation. Maintain recoverable backups for data that remains, and do not give unrelated people the vault password or recovery material.
- Save and close sensitive files in use
- Lock the vault and sign out of sensitive accounts
- Back up important data and minimize what remains