The short answer
Use a backup that encrypts private files before upload and makes clear who holds the decryption key. With Cloud Vault, your device adds another layer of AES-256 encryption using a key derived from your Cloud Vault password. Our team cannot decrypt the backed-up photos or videos.
A backup is useful only when the upload is complete and you can unlock it.01 / 04
Decide what needs a recoverable copy
Storing photos in a locked app and backing them up solve different problems. Local storage can keep files private on a phone, but a phone can be lost, damaged or reset. A local-only file does not become a cloud backup just because it is inside a vault.
Start with the files you would not want to lose. Decide whether to enable Cloud Vault or maintain another recovery method you understand. Do this before replacing a phone, uninstalling an app or clearing storage.
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What Cloud Vault adds
Cloud Vault is an optional premium backup and sync feature for Private Photo Vault®. The app works offline without an account for local storage; Cloud Vault requires an account and internet access to back up and sync.
Files are already encrypted in the app. Before upload, Cloud Vault applies an additional AES-256 encryption layer on the device. Its password is never uploaded to our servers. Space Saver can keep originals in encrypted Cloud Vault to reduce phone storage usage, and Cloud Vault supports syncing between iPhone and Android.
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Confirm your backup is complete
Treat “backup enabled” and “backup complete” as different states. Files that have not finished uploading cannot be restored from that backup. A weak connection or a large collection of videos can make completion take longer than expected.
- Enable Cloud Vault in the app and set a long, random, unique Cloud Vault password.
- Save that password somewhere safe, such as a password manager.
- Allow the files you need to finish backing up.
- Before retiring an old phone, confirm that the files you need open on the new device. Keep the old copy until you have checked.
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Free space deliberately
Use the app’s Space Saver feature for its intended storage workflow rather than deleting the app to make room. Removing an app can remove files stored only on that device.
Also keep your photo-library backup separate in your thinking. iCloud Photos synchronizes deletions across the devices using that library. It should not be treated as an independent archive that necessarily keeps a photo after you delete it from the synced library.
Common questions
Does downloading the app automatically enable Cloud Vault?
No. Cloud Vault is optional premium and must be enabled. Confirm backup completion before relying on it.
Can support decrypt a backup if I forget the password?
No. Cloud Vault uses zero-knowledge encryption for photo and video content. Our team cannot recover the password or decrypt those files for you.
Sources & further reading
Product guidance from Private Photo Vault®. Features can vary by platform, device and plan.
