Optional client side file encryption prior to upload

[Michael Shallcrass]

Since I suspect cloud privacy is about to become a big deal, why not include an option to encrypt files on your computer before they're uploaded?

The most obvious reason not to is that it would break a lot of the extra (non storage locker) features, but I suspect that many people would take that option if it meant their data would be safe(er).

I envisage there being an option when you first set up your account "encrypt my files before syncing with the cloud," or something. A warning can then be shown explaining how features of the system will be limited, and people will have the choice before continuing.

This would obviously have a big impact on the functionality of web based access, but possibly with some more granular controls (ability to specify which files are encrypted, or not encrypting music files, or HTML5 decryption built into the webpage) these issues could be overcome.

Adding this feature may even draw more people into the Ubuntu ecosystem, as they look for ways to increase their on line privacy without losing the useful features the cloud can provide.