Reviewed October 30, 2026 · Kinori Labs editorial

Follow the document’s journey

A document can begin in Mail, pass through a scanner and remain in Files before arriving in a vault. Every app in that path may retain its own copy. Start with a sample document and inspect where the import came from. Importing into a private library does not automatically remove attachments from email or files from a cloud provider.

Names and previews deserve attention

A filename can reveal a medical appointment, legal matter or identification number without opening the document. Thumbnails and recent-item lists can expose details too. When evaluating an app, ask whether its index and previews receive protection alongside the file contents. Check the app switcher after locking the app, and consider whether notifications contain document details.

Keep the original usable

A protected document should remain readable and exportable. Try a multi-page PDF, a landscape scan and a file with a long name. Confirm export preserves what you need, including page order and legibility. Avoid using your sole copy of a vital record for the first test. If a document must be retained for an official purpose, verify the applicable format requirements with the issuing organization.

Plan for replacement and access

A local archive needs a tested path off the current phone. Store an encrypted backup separately and keep the secret somewhere recoverable. Apple’s Files documentation explains device and cloud locations; location is not the same as application-level encryption. Vaultary is being designed for personal photos and documents together, with encrypted metadata as a requirement. Supported file types, previews and restoration must be verified in the release build before this website presents them as available features.

Primary source

Apple’s official documentation. System behavior varies by software version and settings. Review the current instructions on your device.

How we’re approaching Vaultary · Our recovery principles

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