February 28, 2008 11:13 AM PST

Lock up your files and hide the key

by Jessica Dolcourt
  • Font size
  • Print
  • 10 comments

It's said that everyone's got something to hide, but not everyone needs top-notch encryption to do it. My Lockbox is a free privacy app for Windows XP and Vista that password-protects any folder of your choosing and then, poof!, can make it disappear from view.

My Lockbox (Credit: CNET Networks)

The fairly simple interface has you setting up a password, with a hint. Keep it strong and different from your other passwords, or you're leaving yourself vulnerable to a forced lock. Passwords protect both the control panel and the folder path you've decided to conceal from Window Explorer's sights, for obvious reasons. There are a few options, to protect the lock box's integrity while in Safe Mode, and to hide the tray icon that communicates when the lock box is open. There are also a fair number of skins, if you can't stand looking at the app's default metallic grain.

My only major complaint is that the app installs a Start menu icon; not very conducive to establishing an inconspicuous profile.

Jessica Dolcourt reviews the latest and greatest smartphone apps, in addition to a healthy dose of Windows software. E-mail Jessica and follow her on Twitter.
Recent posts from The Download Blog
Introducing the Utilities Starter Kit
Using Facebook and Twitter safely
Three free iPhone apps that make shopping easier
The last deal before Christmas
Opera 10.5 pre-alpha goes Chrome hunting
'Driver' races out of history and onto iPhones
Yelp for Android now uploading photos
Today only: Get a free DVD ripper
Add a Comment (Log in or register) (10 Comments)
  • prev
  • 1
  • next
by Kian_01 February 28, 2008 10:50 PM PST
I wonder whether this would still enable my backup to run? Most likely not, since the file is password protected. So I have my data protected by not really safe.

I prefer TrueCrypt for my privacy - using an enrypted file that I can mount as a drive. This way the file is always included in my backup.
Reply to this comment
by rednetherton February 29, 2008 3:36 PM PST
Ah yes, but if you have it on a different drive from your main one, all is OK. It works just fine without the hassle of encrypting data. I have discovered that it IS visible and not locked if you are viewing it from Mandriva Linux. Yes, if you need true security, use an encryption program. If not, this will keep most prying eyes out, unless they are computer whiz eyes.
Reply to this comment
by sanjayji39 March 3, 2008 1:40 AM PST
i want to download this software
Reply to this comment
by affepoop March 3, 2008 3:25 PM PST
aaa
Reply to this comment
by subbaraidu March 3, 2008 5:20 PM PST
I am impressed with the software. I would like to download the same
Reply to this comment
by Vickysvenom March 3, 2008 8:08 PM PST
it s really safe and best to use
Reply to this comment
by mayoneZ March 14, 2008 6:53 AM PDT
nice software.. i want to have..
Reply to this comment
by naughtyromeo March 14, 2008 10:35 AM PDT
fudu site hai yaar
Reply to this comment
by naughtyromeo March 14, 2008 10:38 AM PDT
dhundte reh jaoge per milega nahi salle chutiyon ne apni bund mein chupa kar rakha hai salle those he hainper saadi ta gal he hor aa apa lab leya
Reply to this comment
by wonderedspirit June 2, 2008 1:52 AM PDT
This is a to notch. I wanna download this one. Seems to work very well.
Reply to this comment
(10 Comments)
  • prev
  • 1
  • next

Search Download Blog posts

About The Download Blog

Download.com editors cover the world of downloadable software and beyond.

Add this feed to your online news reader

The Download Blog topics