### How to Password Protect Screenshots on macOS
In the current digital landscape, safeguarding sensitive information is essential. If your screenshots contain confidential data, such as tax documents or financial details, protecting them from unauthorized access is vital. Although macOS Preview does not provide file-level password protection, there are efficient ways to secure your images utilizing built-in tools.
#### Method 1: Using Disk Utility
For those in search of a comprehensive solution, creating an encrypted virtual disk with Disk Utility is available. This approach is better suited for securing numerous files, but it may be excessive for only a handful of images.
1. **Create a Folder**: Collect your screenshots and organize them in a folder.
2. **Open Disk Utility**: Go to Finder > Applications > Disk Utility.
3. **Create a New Image**: Click File > New Image > Image from Folder, then select your folder.
4. **Set Encryption**: Assign a name to your virtual disk, designate its location, and pick an encryption level (up to AES-256). Choose the Read/Write format for adaptability.
5. **Mount and Unmount**: Keep in mind, you’ll have to mount the disk to access your files and unmount it to secure them.
While this method is effective, it can be unwieldy due to the necessity of frequent mounting and unmounting.
#### Method 2: Quick Use of Preview
An easier and quicker alternative involves utilizing Preview to convert your images into password-protected PDFs.
1. **Open with Preview**: Right-click the image, hover over “Open With,” and select Preview.
2. **Export as PDF**: Navigate to File > Export as PDF.
3. **Set Permissions**: Name your file, select a location, and click “More Details” > “Permissions” to find password options.
4. **Apply Password**: Check “Require Password To Open Document” and input your chosen password. You’ll also need to set an owner password, which may be identical.
5. **Save the PDF**: Click “Apply” and then “Save.” Your encrypted PDF will be generated.
Now, when you try to open the PDF, you will be asked for the password, ensuring your confidential information is safeguarded.
#### Security Considerations
While Disk Utility utilizes AES-256 encryption, Preview employs AES-128, which remains highly secure for the majority of users. It offers ample protection against common threats, making it appropriate for everyday use.
By implementing these methods, you can successfully protect your sensitive screenshots and preserve your privacy with minimal effort.
