How to Auto-Lock Files on Mac with Smart Rules

Locking sensitive files manually is easy to forget, and even the most careful user can slip up. That's why automation matters. Finderlock's Smart Rules feature takes care of file security automatically—so your private data is safe whether you remember to lock it or not.

Why Auto-Lock Matters

Most users drag a file into a locked folder or click "Lock" after finishing work. But what happens if you step away from your Mac? Or if your computer goes to sleep while a confidential project is still open?

Without automation, your files remain vulnerable. Smart Rules prevent that.

What Are Smart Rules?

Smart Rules are a set of conditions that automatically lock your protected files based on system events:

• On sleep: Files lock instantly when your Mac goes to sleep.
• On logout: Everything re-locks as soon as you log out or switch users.
• On idle: If your Mac sits idle for a set period, Finderlock locks files for you.

Think of them as security "tripwires" that trigger the lock at just the right time.

How to Enable Smart Rules in Finderlock

1. Open Preferences from the Finderlock menu bar app.
2. Go to the Security section.
3. Enable the Smart Rules you want:
   • Lock on sleep
   • Lock on logout
   • Lock on idle (choose interval)
4. Close Preferences—your rules are active immediately.

That's it. No scripts, no Terminal commands, just a toggle.

Advantages Over Manual Locking

• Zero effort: You never forget to protect files.
• Consistency: Files always lock under the same conditions.
• Peace of mind: Even if you walk away, Finderlock has your back.
• Granularity: Combine with custom auto-lock timers for even finer control.

Why Not Use Just FileVault or Screensaver Lock?

FileVault protects the entire disk, and macOS can require a password on wake. But that only works at the system level—if your Mac is unlocked for someone else, your files are still accessible.

Finderlock's Smart Rules add file-level security on top of macOS protections. That means even if someone gets past your login screen, your protected files remain encrypted and locked.

Conclusion

Smart Rules make file protection effortless and automatic. By locking files on sleep, logout, or idle, Finderlock ensures your sensitive data is never left exposed. For professionals, freelancers, or anyone handling private information, Smart Rules are the invisible safety net you didn't know you needed.

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