Some, like 7-Zip, are free, while others like Folder Guard must be purchased.Įven if something is protected with a password, it can still be deleted. There are a number of programs available to help you encrypt data or password protect folders and files. You can archive sensitive files, compress them, and encrypt the contents with a required password. Because it’s difficult to set up foolproof file protection from a determined hacker, it’s smart to use redundant security protocols and other privacy tools when possible beyond a locked folder with encrypted files.