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**ZDNET’s Key Takeaways:**
There are numerous occasions when encrypting files becomes not just a preference but a necessity. Whether you are transferring sensitive materials, backing up confidential details, or safeguarding private records, choosing the right software can make all the difference. On MacOS, the Encrypto application simplifies this process remarkably, turning what might otherwise seem complex into something almost effortless.

Every so often, I encounter a need to encrypt a file on my Mac system—perhaps a contract containing details such as financial records, tax documentation, or other personal identifiers. Any document that contains private or sensitive information should always remain inaccessible to anyone other than the intended recipient. For that reason, encryption provides essential protection, preventing prying eyes from viewing data that should remain confidential.

**A Word of Caution:**
Be alert to suspicious or overly casual messages such as the now-infamous “Hi, how are you?” text. This style of scam has become increasingly common, and understanding how it functions can prevent serious personal or financial compromise.

After experimenting with multiple encryption utilities for MacOS, I recently discovered one particular application that stood out for its remarkable simplicity and effectiveness—**Encrypto**. This tool, available at no cost from the MacOS App Store, accomplishes one specific function—encrypting files—and it performs that function with exceptional efficiency. Powered by AES-256 encryption technology, Encrypto not only secures data but also gives users the ability to share encrypted files seamlessly. It includes optional password hints that can be shared alongside files, utilizes the integrated MacOS sharing system for convenient distribution, and allows files to be saved directly to disk.

For users of other platforms, it’s worth noting that Encrypto is also available for Windows. This means encrypted files can be exchanged effortlessly between Mac and PC users, enabling collaboration among friends, family members, or coworkers regardless of their operating system of choice.

Let’s go step by step through how straightforward Encrypto truly is to use.

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### Installing Encrypto
To begin, you’ll need only the most basic of prerequisites: a Mac desktop or laptop running the latest version of MacOS. That’s all. Once that requirement is met, you’re ready to install.

1. Access the MacOS App Store from either the Dock or Launchpad.
2. In the search bar, type **Encrypto**, locate the app, and click the **cloud icon** featuring a downward arrow to start the installation.
3. When the download completes, Encrypto will be immediately ready to use—no complicated setup or configuration needed.

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### Using Encrypto
As mentioned earlier, Encrypto’s interface is deliberately simple, ensuring that even users unfamiliar with encryption software can operate it with ease.

1. **Open Encrypto:** Launch the application from your Dock or via Launchpad. Simply search for “Encrypto,” click the app icon, and it will open within seconds.
2. **Add the File to Encrypt:** You have two options—either click the downward-facing arrow (which changes to a “+” symbol when hovered over) and browse for the file that you wish to encrypt, or take advantage of Mac’s drag-and-drop functionality by pulling the file directly from Finder into the Encrypto window.
3. **Encrypt the File:** After adding your file, a password field will appear. Type in a secure and unique passphrase—ideally one that contains a mix of letters, numbers, and special characters. Then click the **Encrypt** button. Within seconds, Encrypto will complete the encryption process, locking your file behind robust AES-256 protection.
4. **Share or Save the File:** Once encryption is finished, you’ll be presented with two convenient options. By clicking **Save As**, you can store the encrypted file locally. Alternatively, the **Share** drop-down menu allows you to select any supported distribution method—AirDrop, email, or other sharing services integrated with MacOS.

Recipients of your encrypted file will need two essential things to access it: the encryption password and the Encrypto app installed on their computer. Because Encrypto exists for both MacOS and Windows, cross-platform sharing is entirely seamless.

**Security Tip:** When transmitting the password, refrain from sending it in the same channel you use to share the file. Ideally, communicate the password verbally, such as over a phone call. If you must send it through text or email, ensure that the message gives no indication of what the password pertains to.

Decrypting the file requires equally little effort. The recipient simply opens Encrypto, selects the appropriate file, and when prompted, inputs the correct password. Within moments, the program restores the file to its original, readable state.

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### A Small but Important Caveat
After sharing or saving your encrypted file, you will notice that the unencrypted original remains on your system. Encrypto does not automatically delete the source file for safety reasons. Because of this, you should manually remove or relocate the original document to maintain privacy. If you happen to have **F-Vault** installed, the two applications integrate smoothly—Encrypto can automatically conceal the original file, reducing the risk of accidental exposure. Without F-Vault, however, the responsibility falls on you to manage the original data carefully.

It’s wise to keep the original version until you’re absolutely sure the encryption performed as expected. Conducting a few test encryptions with noncritical files can help verify that the application operates correctly. Once you’re comfortable with the process and confident in the results, you can then decide whether it’s appropriate to delete the original files permanently.

In my own workflow, I typically encrypt the file twice—saving one copy to an external drive for redundancy and another to my internal storage. Only after confirming both encrypted copies are intact and accessible with the correct password do I proceed to delete the unencrypted original.

A final reminder: never delete any important data unless you are entirely certain of your backups and that Encrypto’s encryption has succeeded. Having duplicates ensures that even in the unlikely event of a corruption or user error, your critical information remains safe.

**Related Reading:** To better understand the wider security landscape, explore how Let’s Encrypt has contributed to making the internet safer by standardizing and freely enabling HTTPS encryption. This broader shift mirrors the same principles of confidentiality and trust that make tools like Encrypto an indispensable part of modern digital security.

Sourse: https://www.zdnet.com/article/encrypt-mac-files-free-simple-encrypto-app/