How to Share Files Securely: Tools and Best Practices

The Problem with Normal File Sharing

When you attach a file to an email or share a Google Drive link, that file may pass through multiple servers, be stored indefinitely, and potentially be accessed by the service provider. For sensitive documents — legal files, financial records, medical information, or personal photos — this level of exposure is unacceptable.

Secure File Sharing Methods

End-to-End Encrypted Transfer

Services that encrypt files before upload so that only the recipient can decrypt them:

• Tresorit Send — Encrypted file sharing with link expiration and download limits
• OnionShare — Open source, uses Tor for anonymous file sharing
• Wormhole — Simple encrypted file transfer through the browser

Self-Destructing Links

Files that automatically delete after being downloaded or after a set time:

• Firefox Send (discontinued but alternatives exist)
• Snapdrop — Local network file sharing (never leaves your WiFi)
• Bitwarden Send — Encrypted text and file sharing with expiration

Client-Side Processing

For documents, use our PDF Tools to merge, split, or compress files entirely in your browser before sharing. No upload to external servers means no exposure.

Best Practices for Secure Sharing

• Encrypt before sharing — ZIP files with AES-256 encryption before uploading anywhere
• Share passwords separately — Send the file link via email and the password via text message
• Set expiration dates — Always use time-limited links when possible
• Remove metadata — Strip hidden data from images and documents before sharing
• Limit access — Share with specific people rather than creating public links
• Verify recipients — Confirm you are sharing with the right person before sending sensitive files

What NOT to Do

• Never share sensitive files via unencrypted email
• Avoid public cloud links for confidential documents
• Do not use social media messaging for sensitive file transfers
• Never share passwords in the same message as the encrypted file

For Regular File Sharing

If you regularly share files with the same people:

• Set up a shared encrypted folder with a service like Tresorit or Cryptomator
• Use end-to-end encrypted messaging apps for casual file sharing
• Establish a shared password system for encrypted archives

Security does not have to be complicated. A few simple habits dramatically reduce the risk of your files being intercepted or accessed by unauthorized parties.