 TITLE: Should I Encrypt Sensitive Files on My Computer? CONTENT: How to Encrypt Files on Your Computer\n-------------------------------------\nThere are many ways to encrypt files on your computer, including a variety of free options. But first, you need to decide which files you want to encrypt.\nIf you don't keep a lot of sensitive information on your computer, you may want to use a program that allows you to encrypt individual files and folders. As a general rule of thumb, encrypt any files that have personally identifiable information, or have information or images you wouldn't want published online for anyone to see.\nAnother option is to encrypt your entire hard drive, or a large part of your hard drive. While this can seem like an easier solution, remember the downside—a lost password means you lose all your files. If you do decide to encrypt your entire hard drive, you may want to regularly back up the information on an unencrypted, but securely stored, external hard drive (ideally one that's not hooked up to an internet-connected device). END