7 apps I use to lock down, encrypt, and store my private files - and most are free

Follow ZDNET: Add us as a preferred source on Google.

ZDNET key takeaway

• File and folder security is crucial in this day and age.
• There are apps you can use to heighten the security of your files.
• These apps are free and available for desktop and mobile devices.

The need for security is high, and it gets higher with each passing day. It doesn't matter if you're using a desktop, laptop, tablet, or phone; you need to make sure you've done everything you can to keep your documents and files secure from prying eyes.

But how? Is your device's operating system enough? Probably not. That being the case, what do you do? You certainly shouldn't leave the security of your files to chance, as that is just inviting trouble.

I've created a short list of apps that can ...