Cloud storage providers like Dropbox and Google Drive make it easy to access and share files from anywhere. But they're not very private.
When you put your files on these platforms, they encrypt your files but they also own the encryption keys.
That means they can see your files. It also means that if the government requested your files, Dropbox or Google could give them out.
Let's look at some private cloud storage alternatives.
Sync.com
Sync.com is a zero-knowledge, end-to-end encrypted private cloud storage provider.
In zero-knowledge encryption, the service provider does not know your encryption key. This makes sure Sync can't read your files, and no one else can either.
When you upload a file to Sync, it’s encrypted on your device before being sent. The file remains encrypted until you retrieve it.
Sync doesn't collect, sell, or share your data or app usage information with third parties.
It has similar features to the big providers: you can set expiration dates on shared links, download limits, 2FA, etc.
Sync is free up to 5GB, with affordable paid plans after. It is available on mobile and desktop devices.
MEGA
MEGA is another zero-knowledge cloud storage provider. Like Sync, nearly everything on MEGA is encrypted. It even has its built-in encrypted chat.
MEGA’s file management system is pretty detailed. There are separate tabs for recent and deleted files and incoming and outgoing shares.
You can view statistics about your cloud storage use with the cloud management tab.
There’s also a feature called MEGAcmd that allows you to use a command-line for advanced management of your files.
You can also set up things like scheduled uploads or automatic backups.
MEGA is a great choice if you're new to cloud storage or looking for a great free option. The free plan offers 20GB of cloud storage.
Also, you can add extra storage to your account by completing certain "achievements", like transferring a certain size file, or recruiting a friend to sign up.
It is available on macOS, Windows, Linux, iOS, and Android devices.
pCloud
Out of all the private cloud storage providers, pCloud is one of the few that offers a lifetime subscription. You get a permanent, private, virtual cloud drive.
It’s based in Switzerland and has to adhere to strict Swiss privacy laws, meaning more protection for your files.
Just like MEGA and Sync, pCloud offers zero-knowledge encryption.
pCloud comes with a 30-day trash history and unlimited remote upload traffic (you only need the URL of the file).
There is no limit to the size of files you can upload.
Also, pCloud lets you choose if you want your files to be stored in the EU or US.
It is available on macOS, Windows, Linux, iOS, and Android devices.
Wrapping Up
Whichever cloud alternative you choose, pair it with some private browsers, operating systems, and search engines.
Keep your VPN handy so your internet traffic is hidden and encrypted.
And make sure your computer is using a strong antivirus program, especially when sharing files back and forth.
It's also a good idea to have a good physical backup of your files; just in case there's no internet.
