Encryption with Cryptomator
Sometimes you need to share a lot of information or large files with external parties as part of a collaboration. In this case, data encryption with Cryptomator is recommended.
Cryptomator is free, open-source software that helps you securely encrypt files and folders before you store them in cloud storage or on a mobile device to share with others. If you want to use Cryptomator with a cloud service, you will need to install the cloud storage desktop client first.
Cryptomator uses the term 'vault' for encrypted folders where your files are securely stored. When you place files in a Cryptomator vault, both the file contents and the file names are automatically encrypted. The vault can only be opened and the files can only be accessed with the correct password.
Important: Please communicate the decryption password to authorised recipients separately, e.g. by phone or RocketChat.
How to download the software
Contact your IT support team to have the software downloaded and installed by an administrator. If you are supported by the Central Windows Services (ZWD) team, please contact your IT Workstation Equipment Coordinator (K_ITA).
Official programme website: https://cryptomator.org/
Instructions
Below is a brief explanation of how to create a new vault and how to work with an existing vault.
A full set of instructions with images can be found here.
Creating a new vault
1) Open Cryptomator and create a new vault with Add > New Vault.
2) Choose a name for your vault and confirm with Next.
3) Select Custom Location and browse your computer for the desired location. Click Next.
4) Cryptomator will show you the name and location of the vault for confirmation. Confirm with Next.
5) Enter a strong password and confirm by entering it again. After clicking Create Vault, your new vault is ready for use. Save your password in a trusted password manager, such as KeePassXC, so that you do not forget it.
Working with an existing vault
1) Open Cryptomator. If Cryptomator already knows the vault, continue with 1a). If Cryptomator does not yet recognise the vault, e.g. because the folder has just been shared with you, please continue with 1b).
1a) Select the desired vault from the list on the left and open it by clicking Unlock. After entering the password, the vault will appear as a new drive on your computer.
1b) Add the vault by selecting Add > Existing Vault. Browse to the shared folder on your computer and open the file vault.cryptomator. You can Unlock Now the vault and after entering the password, the vault will appear as a new drive on your computer.
2) You can use the vault just like any other drive. You can open, edit and save files.
3) Once you have finished working on the files, lock the vault in Cryptomator with Lock. The drive will no longer be displayed - the vault is now securely locked.
