Private file protection
How should I store photos, identity scans, and contracts?
Short answer
Keep long-term sensitive originals together in an encrypted vault and retain only necessary copies in normal folders. Close files and lock the vault after use, and store recovery material separately.
Reduce scattered copies first
Sensitive files often originate in Downloads, messaging applications, and scanning tools. After moving them into the vault, check whether copies remain on the desktop, in recent export locations, or in synchronized folders.
A vault is not a backup. Important material still needs an independent backup that meets your security needs, and passwords or recovery material should not be stored beside the vault file.
- Centralize originals and reduce normal-folder copies
- Close viewers and editors before locking
- Maintain an independent backup for important material