Digital Fortress FAQs
FAQ Categories

Why Safe Deposit Box Insurance

Are safe deposit boxes the best place to store my valuables?

Safe deposit boxes are the best option for storing valuables, universally recommended by federal, state and local agencies and organizations such as FEMA, FBI, the American Red Cross and others.

Unfortunately, financial institutions do not insure the contents in the event there is a burglary, robbery, flood, fire, hurricane or other man made or natural disaster. When these events occur, they damage or destroy the contents of safe deposit boxes more often than people realize.

Over the last few years an estimated 50,000 safe deposit boxes with approximately $1.3 billion in property have been impacted. Many financial institutions are de-emphasizing or eliminating safe deposit box services. With less staff and little training  losses from unsupervised access to the vaults have grown.  Given the increased frequency and severity of natural disasters and other catastrophes, which no vault or box can protect against, box holders should maintain some level of insurance coverage.

Why have I never heard about Safe Deposit Box Insurance Coverage before?

Safe Deposit Box Insurance Coverage (SDBIC) is a new, patented insurance product designed to provide safe deposit box holders the maximum amount of insurance protection for the lowest possible cost, while maintaining absolute confidentiality and privacy.

It is affordable and convenient to purchase. While financial institutions and certain private vault companies provide the safest and most secure environment in which to store your valuable property, they simply cannot protect against all risks. Many of these institutions are providing Safe Deposit Box Insurance Coverage because they recognize there is a gap in the insurance market that leaves their box renter’s valuable property exposed to loss.

Whether it is hurricanes along the Coast, floods in the Midwest and Southeast, tornados in the Plains, mudslides in the West or fires there are risks wherever you live. There has been an incredible rise in the price of gold, silver, platinum and diamonds over the last decade. Jewelry, which was worth a few thousand dollars five years ago, is now worth well over ten thousand dollars. Why risk suffering a devastating loss of valuables without any insurance protection when, for only a few dollars a year, you can be fully protected and have peace of mind?

How secure and private is the information I provide to SDBIC?

Very secure and completely private. SDBIC employs industry-leading technology to protect your information. More importantly, we limit the amount of personal information we require to obtain coverage.

The amount of insurance protection you select is not reported to any agency or entity other than to our “A” rated insurance company, which is underwriting the coverage limits. In the event of a loss we do not report any loss payments to federal or state agencies. A copy of our Privacy Policy can be found as a link in the footer of this web page.

Who underwrites the SDBIC policy?

SDBIC has partnered with AXA ART, the world’s leading art and collectibles insurance specialist, to offer this unique new insurance solution, which is available in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. AXA Art Americas Corporation products are underwritten by AXA Insurance Company, which maintains an “A (Excellent)” Financial Strength Rating and an “a+” Issuer Credit Rating from A.M. Best. Both AXA ART and AXA Insurance Company are members of the global AXA Group, one of the largest insurance companies in the world. Read more here.

I thought I was Insured

Are safe deposit boxes insured?

No they are not. The risk of loss is on you. In your safe deposit box rental agreement you will find this type of exclusionary language:

“The contents of your safe deposit box are not protected against loss under any insurance maintained by the bank. We recommend that you arrange to have the contents of your box insured.”

Also, this is what the FDIC provides on its consumer website:
“No safe deposit box, or safe, is completely protected from theft, fire, flood or other loss or damage. Consider taking precautions… Remember that, by law, FDIC insurance covers only deposit accounts. Also, do not expect the bank to reimburse you for theft or damage to the contents of your safe deposit box. If you want protection for the valuables in your safe deposit box, talk to your insurance agent.”

What about my homeowner’s policy–Doesn’t this cover me?

Partially or not at all. There are significant limits on the amounts of coverage limits that are available for property typically stored in a safe deposit box (usually about $1,500) and numerous types of properties like gold and other precious metals are not covered at all under a homeowner’s policy. You also must itemize the property being stored in the box and provide third party appraisals for coverage to be effective.

You are also not insured against floods or perhaps even hurricanes under your homeowner’s policy. If you use a rider to insure your property, while you may be able to obtain higher limits, all of the other homeowner policy coverage limitations apply.

The rate for coverage together with the cost of an appraisal of stored items is typically significantly higher than the cost of purchasing Safe Deposit Box Insurance Coverage.

Until SDBIC, the limited coverage available in the market excluded many items, required disclosure of contents and appraisals, and was costly to maintain.

Purchasing Coverage

What information is required for me to obtain Safe Deposit Box Insurance Coverage?

You need to know the name and location of your bank, credit union or private vault facility where the safe deposit box is located and the last two digits of your box. You also need to provide your contact information including your date of birth.

You do not need a list of the property, appraisals or any other documentation relative to the contents in your safe deposit box. You simply select the coverage amount and pay the corresponding premium and you have protection and peace of mind.

How do I determine the amount of coverage to carry on my safe deposit box?

You should estimate the value of the contents you intend to keep in the safe deposit box at any one time.

Keep in mind that the rise in the value of precious metals such as: gold, silver and platinum that are typically used in jewelry and watches have increased dramatically over the last five years causing significant appreciation in the value of those items.

If you believe precious metal prices will continue to rise, then you may want to increase your estimate of value. You would not be happy if there was a loss and you have underinsured the contents of your safe deposit box given how affordable coverage is. Remember, there is no deductible so there is no out of pocket cost when a loss occurs.

If I have more than one safe deposit box, do I need to insure each safe deposit box separately?

If purchasing on line you will need to maintain a policy for each box.  If you have multiple boxes  please call us at 224-227-6181 and we will  try and work out a solution that is convenient for you.

How much does Safe Deposit Box Insurance Coverage cost?

The cost depends on the coverage limit you select. Just choose your coverage limit and find the corresponding cost in the pricing schedule. It is relatively inexpensive, starting at $25 annually for $5,000 of coverage.

There are no deductibles so there is no out of pocket cost when a loss does occur.

When does the Safe Deposit Box Insurance Coverage become effective for an online purchase?

Insurance coverage becomes effective once you have completed the online application and payment has been received.

You cannot file a claim for a flood or hurricane related loss occurring during the first 14 days from the effective date of the first year of the policy. For renewal policies this limitation does not apply.

When does the Safe Deposit Box Insurance Coverage become effective for a purchase by mail or fax?

If you prefer to mail or fax a completed application form to SDBIC, processing time is generally 2 business days from the time your written application is received by our office. Insurance coverage becomes effective once we have successfully processed your application and payment has been received.

It is important to provide current contact information on applications submitted through regular mail or fax in order for SDBIC to complete the process.

Once coverage is in effect, you cannot file a claim for a flood or hurricane related loss occurring during the first 14 days from the effective date of coverage on the initial policy year.

What is Covered

What property is covered by Safe Deposit Box Insurance Coverage?

Anything you can place in a safe deposit box that is legal for you to own or possess is covered.

Whether it is gold, silver, other precious metals, diamonds, gold certificates, bank notes, coins, bonds, securities, jewelry, rare books, stamps, historical documents, lithographs, drawings, sports memorabilia, fine art, antiques, firearms or any type of collectable, it is covered subject to the limits purchased.

What if I have mostly important personal papers in my safe deposit box?

Each policy provides $3,000 of coverage within the limits you select for your important papers.

Items such as: titles, wills, deeds, immigration papers, passports, discharge orders or other important documents or personal mementos. This coverage provides discretionary funds to assist you in obtaining or finding replacements for these items.

What events does Safe Deposit Box Insurance Coverage insure against?

Burglary or robbery, fire, explosion, earthquake, mudslide, flood, tsunami, tidal wave, terrorist attack, hurricane, tornado, landslide, water or sewage from the plumbing or sprinkler system and any other man made or natural disasters. We also cover a loss resulting from seizure by the financial institution unless the seizure was  due to a court order, search warrant , for failure to pay rent on the box or your abandonment of the box.

When Loss Occurs

What if I go to my safe deposit box and some of my property is missing?

Immediately report the missing item to your bank or credit union. If there is evidence of a forcible robbery or burglary of the vault and your individual safe deposit box, the loss will be covered (even if the robbery or burglary was assisted by a bank employee).

If the property in the safe deposit box was seized by your financial institution and a loss occurs, it is covered unless the seizure was pursuant to a court order or search warrant, was for unpaid rent on the box, or you abandoned the box.If we are unable to verify that there was a breach of the box it is considered a mysterious disappearance and there is no coverage. If you have pictures or video of  you placing your property in the box and vault from the last time you, (or anyone else authorized to enter the box), visited the box and the property is now missing, this loss will not be considered excluded as a mysterious disappearance.

 

What should I do if a covered loss has occurred that involves my safe deposit box?

Do not remove any property from the safe deposit box until directed by your financial institution or an authorized representative of SDBIC. Immediately notify SDBIC of your covered loss at 224-227-6181. A claim representative may ask to accompany you when opening the safe deposit box to record the damage or loss to your property.

How does SDBIC determine the amount of my covered loss following an insured event?

In the event of a covered loss, you will be asked to submit a proof of loss statement setting forth the amount of the loss (Claims Form).

You will be paid the lesser of the full coverage limit that was in place at the time of the covered loss or the cost of repairing or replacing the damaged contents in the safe deposit box. If you are paid the full coverage limit for the contents in the safe deposit box, the damaged property becomes the property of SDBIC and its insurance carrier. Should you desire to keep remaining damaged contents in the safe deposit box, SDBIC will provide you with the estimated salvage value of the property that you wish to retain. You will be able to maintain possession of your contents and receive reimbursement less any salvage value of the property.

Coverage Details

Who underwrites the SDBIC policy?

SDBIC has partnered with AXA ART, the world’s leading art and collectibles insurance specialist, to offer this unique new insurance solution, which is available in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. AXA Art Americas Corporation products are underwritten by AXA Insurance Company, which maintains an “A (Excellent)” Financial Strength Rating and an “a+” Issuer Credit Rating from A.M. Best. Both AXA ART and AXA Insurance Company are members of the global AXA Group, one of the largest insurance companies in the world. Read more here.

Can I add or remove property from my safe deposit box without notifying SDBIC Holdings, LLC?

Yes. One of the unique features of Safe Deposit Box Insurance Coverage is that the insurance covers all contents in the safe deposit box that is legal to own. So anything that is in the safe deposit box at the time of a loss (even if it was placed there during the term of the policy) is automatically covered up to the coverage limit you selected.

If the total value of the box contents is higher than the coverage limit you selected; you should consider increasing the amount of coverage limit you are carrying on the safe deposit box. You can change the limits you are carrying by logging into your account and going to the Account Preferences screen and selecting I would like to change “My Coverage Limits on Current Box” or by calling a customer service representative at 224-277-6181.

Is property I remove from the safe deposit box insured by Safe Deposit Box Insurance Coverage for any period of time?

No, the coverage limit only applies to the property that is physically in the safe deposit box or vault at the time a covered loss occurs. If the property has been removed from the safe deposit box or vault prior to the occurrence of a covered loss, there is no coverage for that item.

Do I need to own the property in the safe deposit box to insure it with SDBIC?

No. Any property owned or lawfully in your control is covered subject to the coverage limit purchased when it is in your safe deposit box.

Do I need to be the named renter or lease holder on the safe deposit box to insure it with SDBIC?

Yes. The insured named on the policy must be a named renter or lease holder on the bank agreement for the insurance coverage to be effective.

If there are multiple parties on the bank rental/lease agreement, only one needs to be named on the policy. However, you can add up to one additional named insured on the policy so that the insurance and bank rental/lease agreement are consistent.

Do I need to reapply for Safe Deposit Box Insurance Coverage each year?

No, you will receive an email or mailed notice from SDBIC 30 days before your coverage expires advising you that your safe deposit box coverage will automatically renew for another year. You will be alerted if there was a change to your annual premium.

If the premium was paid with a credit card you should notify SDBIC if your card information has changed. Your insurance coverage will remain in place and continue to renew annually until you tell us to discontinue your coverage.

For your convenience, we strongly encourage you to set up an online account with us as you have immediate access to your policy and easy payment options once you login to our site.

Are coverage limits above $500,000 available?

Yes, higher limits are available. Please contact SDBIC if you desire limits above $500,000 at 224.227.6181 or email us at [email protected].

General Questions

Is Digital Fortress safe?

Yes, absolutely! We have made it our top priority to ensure a maximum level of security and confidentiality for your data. No one but you, not even Digital Fortress team members, is ever able to access or view data in your Digital Fortress.

What does Digital Fortress offer?

Digital Fortress is highly secure online storage for your important documents and passwords. You can back up, organize, store and share data with the highest level of privacy protection using Digital Fortress. Furthermore, the service comes with a built-in data inherit function allowing you to pass on important files and passwords to loved ones should something happen to you. Digital Fortress also offers so-called Team-Spaces for secure and easy sharing of files and documents.

What is the recovery code?

The recovery code is a unique 36-digit code that is the absolute ONLY means with which you can regain access to your Digital Fortress-account, should you forget your password or lose you phone after having activated 2-factor authentication.

The recovery code can only be created from within your Digital Fortress. We highly recommend that you print a copy of your recovery code and hide it in a safe place.

Be aware that Digital Fortress CANNOT reset your login criteria nor can we send you your recovery code if you forget your password. As a part of our strict privacy policy, we simply have no way of accessing or altering a user’s password or recovery code.

What is an activation code?

An activation code is a 36-digit code that can be used to activate the so-called Data Inheritance in your Digital Fortress. The activation code can only be created from within your Digital Fortress. You should only give this code to chosen individuals who you trust to carry out your wishes in terms of passing on your digital assets.

Find more information about Data Inheritance and the importance of the activation code here.

What does “Error #2038” mean?

Error #2038 is a generic error code that appears if something malfunctions during an upload to your Digital Fortress.

Possible root causes are:

  • Security software (e.g. a virus scanner) running on your computer is monitoring and blocking the upload.
  • A plugin in your browser blocks the upload.
  • You are using a proxy-server that blocks the upload.
  • The Adobe Flash Player on your computer is configured in such a way that it does not allow uploads.
  • Your internet connection has been interrupted.

The following steps might help fix the issue:

  1. Make sure that you are running the latest version of Adobe Flash Player.
  2. Try uploading the same file using a different browser.
  3. If the upload still fails, we recommend that you try uploading the file on a different computer.

How do I clear my browser cache?

You will find instructions on how to clear your browser cache here.

On which devices can I use Digital Fortress?

Digital Fortress is currently available for the following devices and platforms:

Any browser of your choice: Use our web application.

  • PC / Mac: Use the Client.
  • iOS (iPad, iPhone, iPod): Use our iOS app from the Apple App Store.
  • Android (Phone and Tablet): Use our Android app from Google Play.

Even though Digital Fortress is available on various devices and platforms, you can use the service on all your devices with one single username and password. This simplifies password management and ensures that you can access all your important data anytime and from anywhere.

How can I move my files from another cloud service to Digital Fortress?

Would you like to move your files from another cloud service to Digital Fortress? We guide you step by step.

Please note: In order to move your files to Digital Fortress you must download them to your local drive (PC/Mac) and then synchronize them with the Digital Fortress web application. After completing an initial synchronization, you can decide which folders you would like to keep synchronizing with your computer and which files you wish to keep in the web application only (a pure web connection to your local drive is not available). The advantage of this solution is that you can access and edit the files you synchronize directly from your computer on-the-go even when you are offline.

Before you start moving your files, you need to sign up for a Digital Fortress account and make sure you have purchased enough file storage space to match your needs. To do so follow these steps:

STEP 1:

Your FREE account comes with a basic private safe (marked with the number 1 in the image below) including100 MB file storage space (marked as 1a) and a password safe (marked as 1b). It also includes the option of opening as many Team Spaces for sharing files as you need (marked as 2). Each Team Space can be used free of charge for a 30-days trial period. It comes with 10 GB shared storage space and 2 member seats (more members and storage space possible).

STEP 2: Set up your private safe

Personal files that are for your eyes only should be stored in your private file safe. You can choose between 3 different subscription types for your private safe (SecureSafe PRO with 1 GB, SecureSafe SILVER with 20 GB or SecureSafe GOLD with 100 GB).

STEP 3: Set up Team Spaces (if needed)

If you have files that you want to share with others you need to store them in one or more Team Spaces. You may later invite members to these shared data rooms.

Open the number of Team Spaces you need by clicking on the „+“-button in the main menu of your Digital Fortress account (marked with the number 2 in the image above).

Please be aware that each Team Space you open directly from your Digital Fortress account is a 30 day Team Space TRIAL per default. It automatically comes with 10 GB shared storage space and 2 member seats for testing purposes. After the 30 day trial period, you will be asked to pay for the Team Space.

You have successfully set up your Digital Fortress account.

You are now ready to move your files to your Digital Fortress. To do so follow these steps:

STEP 1: Move files from other cloud service 

Download all your files from your formerly used cloud service to your local computer.

STEP 2: Move files to SecureSafe 

Install the Digital Fortress Client for file synchronization on your Mac or Windows computer.

With the Digital Fortress Client installed, you now have a dedicated Digital Fortress folder on your computer.

Organize all the files you want in your Digital Fortress in this folder.

Your Digital Fortress folder will be divided into a sub folder for your private safe and a sub folder per Team Space you have opened in your online account. Make sure to put personal files in your private folder and shared files in the correct Team Space folders.

The files will automatically synchronize with your Digital Fortress (you must be logged into the Digital Fortress Client for this to work).

Once the synchronization of your files is complete, you can log in to your online account via any browser to access them.

Be aware that the Digital Fortress Client synchronizes all changes you make to your files from your local computer with the Digital Fortress web application and vice versa. If you delete a file locally, it will automatically be moved to the trash folder in your online account. If you log in to the web application and delete a file here, it will also be deleted from your local computer.

STEP 3: Remove folders from sync folder list (if wanted)

Do you have data, which you would like to keep in the web application only (and not on your PC/Mac)? Learn how to remove items from your sync folder list here.

STEP 4: Download apps for mobile access

If you would like access to your files via mobile devices, download our apps for iPhone, iPad or Android devices.

Password Safe

How can I sort the entries in my Password Safe?

In the Digital Fortress web application, you can sort password entries alphabetically by clicking any of the table column headings such as “Title” or “Date Modified”. The passwords will be sorted along the corresponding column.

You can also click “Sort” in the top menu bar. A drop-down menu will appear, allowing you to choose the parameter you would like to use to sort your passwords.

How can I import existing password lists to Digital Fortress?

You can only import existing passwords lists in the web application. The iPhone and Android apps do not yet support importing or exporting of password lists. To do so, follow these steps:

  1. Log in to your Digital Fortress via any browser.
  2. Click the “More” button in the top menu bar.
  3. Select “Import passwords…” from the drop down menu.
  4. Specify which file you would like to import and click “Open”.
  5. A preview table will show you what data you’re about to import to your password safe. Each row in the preview table represents a password entry that will be imported.
  6. Arrange the rows to match the predefined header fields (use drag and drop to do so).
  7. Check that you have chosen a character-set that supports any special characters used in your list.
  8. Click “Import” to complete the import of your list.

It is important that you select the right character set for your file, when you import password lists to Digital Fortress, otherwise special characters might be translated wrongly. Digital Fortress currently supports CSV (Comma Separated Values) text files that contain one password entry per row. Fields should be separated by a separator character (e. g. comma, semi-colon, tab).

How can I export all my passwords?

You can only export your existing passwords lists in the web application. The iPhone and Android apps do not yet support importing or exporting password lists.

To do so, follow these steps:

  1. Log in to your Digital Fortress from your PC/Mac.
  2. Click the “More” button in the top menu bar.
  3. Select “Export All Passwords…” from the drop down menu.
  4. A new window will allow you to specify an export format for your file.
  5. Choose the separator character you prefer (e. g. comma, semi-colon, tab).
  6. Choose a character set that fits your needs (e. g. Mac OS Roman, ASCII, Unicode).
  7. Click “Continue”.
  8. Choose which folder you would like to export your passwords to.
  9. Click “Save” to download and save your passwords to the chosen folder.

After exporting to your PC/Mac, the CSV formatted file can be imported into a spreadsheet program (such as Excel) for further manual processing.

Notifications

What are notifications?

Notifications inform you about certain activities in your Team-Spaces. You can choose which individual Team-Spaces you wish to be notified about. Your Team-Spaces are located to the right of your Private-Safe, as separate tabs in the main menu.

Notifications will let you know when third parties accept your invitation to a Team-Space, upload files to that Team-Space or delete files from it by emptying the trash. You are not notified about your own activities including the activities you carry out in your private safe.

Where can I find details about individual activities in a Team Space?

You can find an overview of all member activities in a Team Space by following these steps:

  1. Log in to your Digital Fortress from your PC/Mac.
  2. Click the Team Space you are interested in.
  3. Click the “Activity Viewer” in the left navigation bar.
  4. A detailed list of all member activities will appear.

How can I activate/deactivate notifications?

Notifications are activated and set to “Immediate” by default. For each Team Space you open, you need to deactivate notifications or change the interval with which you receive them individually, if desired.

To do so, follow these steps:

  1. Log in to your account from your PC/Mac.
  2. Click the Team Space for which you need to change the notifications settings.
  3. Choose the “Settings” tab in the lower left hand side of your screen.
  4. Choose “Notifications”.
  5. According to your preference, you can change the notification frequency settings from Immediate, Never, Daily or Weekly.

Can I activate the notifications for each Team Space individually?

Absolutely, for each Team-Space you can chose whether you wish to be notified about members’ activities and how often.

How can I change the email address that I receive notifications on?

The default email address for receiving notifications is the email address you are using for your Digital Fortress account. To change this email address, follow these steps:

  1. Log in to your account from your PC/Mac.
  2. Go to the Team Space you would like to edit.
  3. Choose “Settings” in the lower left-hand side of your screen.
  4. Click on “Notifications”.
  5. The email address you’re using to receive notifications for this Team Space will now appear in the center of your screen.
  6. Choose “Edit” and add the new email address in which you want to receive notifications on.
  7. Hit “Save and close” to save your changes.

Be aware that you can only connect one email address to your Digital Fortress at a time. So when you change the email address for notifications in one Team Space, you will also receive notifications about other Team Spaces to this email address.

Can I activate the notifications function on iOS/Android?

Currently, notifications are only available for our web application, which can be accessed using any PC/Mac.

Mail-In Function

What is Mail-In?

Mail-In is an integrated email inbox in your online account. If you activate Mail-In, you will get a personal Digital Fortress email address. When you send emails to this address, all attached files and documents will be delivered directly into your Digital Fortress. If you send an email with no files attached, the text in the email will simply be stored as a document in your safe. 

How can I activate the Mail-In function?

Simply follow these steps:

  1. Log in to your account from any browser.
  2. Click the “Mail-In” tab on the left hand side of your screen.
  3. Click “Settings”.
  4. Switch on the Mail-In function.
  5. Your unique email address is now displayed on the screen.

When you send emails to this address, all attached files and documents will be delivered directly into your Digital Fortress safe. If you send an email with no files attached, the text in the email will simply be stored as a document in your safe.

You can find more information about the Mail-In function here.

How can I move files from my Mail-In to my file safe?

Follow these steps to copy files from your Mail-In inbox to your File Safe:

  1. Log in to your Digital Fortress account from any browser.
  2. Click the “Mail-In” tab in the left hand side of your screen.
  3. Highlight the file you want to copy from your Mail-In inbox.
  4. Click “More” in the top menu bar or use right click on your mouse to select one of the following options:
    a) Cut Items (the chosen file will be deleted from the Mail-In Inbox once moved to your File Safe)
    b) Copy Items (the chosen file will be duplicated to your File Safe)
  5. Navigate to the File Safe and select the folder that you want to paste the file into.
  6. Select “Paste Items” in the More Menu or by right clicking your mouse.
  7. The file will now appear in the selected folder.

What is the maximum file size for Mail-In delivery?

The maximum file size depends on your mailing provider. Our servers allow emails with a maximum message size of 50 Megabytes.

Find more information about the Mail-In function click here.

How can I activate the Mail-In function on iOS/Android?

To activate the Mail-In via your smartphone, follow these steps:

  1. Log in to your Digital Fortress from your smartphone.
  2. Choose “Settings”
  3. Choose “Mail-In Setting”.
  4. Swipe the Mail-In activation field to the right.

Find more information about the Mail-In function, click here.

Is sending confidential data to my Mail-In address safe?

As the transmission of data via email can be subject to security risks, we cannot guarantee the security of your data until it is securely delivered into your Digital Fortress. For highly confidential information we recommend that you continue to use the standard file upload process.

For  more information about the Mail-In function, please see here.

Why is the text not shown when I send an email with an attachment to my Mail-In address?

The Mail-In function is designed to save either an email attachment or an email text directly in your Digital Fortress. Note that it cannot save both an attachment and a text sent in the same email.

If you send an email with an attachment using your Mail-In email address, only the attachment will be saved in your Digital Fortress. If you send an email that solely contains text, this will be stored as a document in your safe.

My emails do not show in my Mail-In inbox, what can I do?

To ensure the best possible level of Spam protection, we have various measures working in the background to protect your data. One consequence of these security measures is that there may be a delay in processing your emails whilst the sender is verified. This process may take up to 30 minutes and will be reduced for each subsequent delivery until it will only take 30 seconds to complete this process.

NOTE: To update your Digital Fortress built-in functions, use the circular arrow at the top right of your safe or the refresh button (not the browser function).

File Safe

How do I copy/upload a document from my computer to Digital Fortress?

Simply follow these steps:

  1. Log in to your account via your PC/Mac.
  2. Make sure you have chosen your File Safe or the Team-Space you want to upload your file to.
  3. Click the “Upload” button in the top menu bar.
  4. Select the document you want to upload from your PC.
  5. Click “Open” to upload the document.

The document will be encoded and transferred to your Digital Fortress. Once it is there, you can move it to any folder of your choice.

Can I copy/upload several documents to Digital Fortress at the same time?

Yes. You can easily select several documents for upload at once. Simply follow these steps:

  1. Log in to your Digital Fortress via your PC/Mac.
  2. Make sure you have selected either your File Safe or the Team Space to where you want to upload your documents.
  3. Click the “Upload” button in the top menu bar.
  4. Select all the documents you want to upload by holding down the Ctrl key (Windows) or Command key (MacOS) while clicking them.
  5. Click “Open” to upload all the documents at once.

How do I copy/upload a whole folder from my computer to Digital Fortress?

It is not possible to directly select and upload whole folders to your Digital Fortress because of a limitation in the operating systems that are used to run Digital Fortress. You can, however, compress the desired folder as a ZIP file directly on your own computer and then upload it to your safe.

To do so right click the folder you want to compress and chose “Compress folder”. The compression has the added advantage of allowing a faster upload.

After the upload, you can either leave the ZIP folder as it is or unzip it and restore the original document/folder structure. To do so, select a ZIP folder in your Digital Fortress, then right click your mouse and choose “Extract all”.

How do I download/put a document from my safe onto my computer?

Simply follow these steps:

  1. Log in to your account from your Mac/PC.
  2. Either double-click the document you would like to download or select it and click on the “Download” button.
  3. The chosen file/files will now download to your computer.

If you select and download entire folders, the entire contents are automatically zipped and downloaded to your PC as a single compressed document with the extension “.zip”.

Once the zipped file is on your computer, you can easily unpack it by double-clicking it.

What is the maximal file size for uploads?

The maximal file size is 2 Gigabytes. Please be aware that if you have a regular internet connection at home (with for example 10mbit/s download and 1mbit/s upload)  the upload of a single 2 Gigabyte file can take many hours.

Which search criteria can I use to find files in my File Safe?

You can search for specific file names or for file types to easily find the file you’re looking for.

Can I search for contents located in my files?

No, this is not possible.

Which folder is being searched?

The specific folder, which you are viewing at the time of a search, will be searched.

How can I search my entire File Safe?

To search the entire File Safe, follow these steps:

  1. Log in to your Digital Fortress from your PC/ Mac.
  2. Click “All Files” in the left hand side column of your File Safe.
  3. Click on the “All Fields” button, which is located to the right of the search field in the top menu bar.
  4. Type a search term into the search field.
  5. Your entire File Safe is now being searched.

Is the File-Safe search function also available on iOS/Android?

Currently, this function is only available for our web application, which can be accessed from any PC/Mac.

Secure File Transfer

Can I send multiple files at the same time?

Yes, you can send several files at the same time when you are using the web application. Depending on your account type you have the following capacity:

  • SecureSafe FREE: 3 files at a time
  • SecureSafe PRO: 5 files at a time
  • SecureSafe SILVER: unlimited
  • SecureSafe GOLD: unlimited

Why is file sharing and exchanging through other services not as secure?

The main risk associated with file sharing services is connected to the download link. Anyone who is in possession of the download link, can access the file(s) sent with it. If the download link is sent via regular email, it may be intercepted by third parties that will then be able to access the sent content.

To avoid this risk, Digital Fortress offers two additional strong protection mechanisms:

  1. Protection of the download link with a security code (only available for SILVER and GOLD customers): only after entering the security code will the download link be released. This security code can easily be sent to the recipient via SMS (recommended) through the Digital Fortress application. If the receiver’s mobile number is not known, telephone, letter and fax are recommended as the other most secure options for delivering the code.
  2. Temporary limitation on the download link: you can choose to limit the availability of the download link to 10 minutes, 1 day, 1 week or 1 month. For highly sensitive information, it is recommended to limit the validity period for the receiver to 10 minutes.

Why is file exchange through other cloud solutions not as secure?

Many cloud services state that they encrypt the customer data. However, any service that can reset your password is also able to decode the data stored in your account and therefore access it.

Unlike many similar service providers, Digital Fortress not only relies on the highest encryption standards, but also CANNOT reset your password so therefore can never access your stored data.

Lastly, the legal jurisdiction of most large Internet storage services is in the U.S., where it is commonly known that privacy laws are less strict. As a Swiss-based service provider, Digital Fortress exclusively saves your data in highly secure Swiss data centers and has its legal jurisdiction in Switzerland. This enables us to guarantee maximum security and privacy protection for your data.

Why is standard file transfer via email unsafe?

Many mail servers used for sending and receiving emails store these in an unencrypted format. Therefore, access to email attachments and content is easy to achieve and difficult to restrict. Even exchanging data between mail servers can create security risks. Third parties can gain undetected access to the emails and their content, as they are unencrypted. Emails sent without PGP or S/MIME encryption is considered extremely unsafe.

Can Digital Fortress view the sent files?

No. Sent files are like any other Digital Fortress data; encrypted so even our own staff CANNOT see the contents.

Can the receiver of the file access my Digital Fortress?

No. When delivering a file, an encrypted copy is created and stored in a secure temporary safe. The receiver can only use the download link (and the optional security codes) to access the file in the temporary safe.

Is secure delivery of files also available for Team Spaces?

Yes, you can also send files directly from your Team-Spaces.

Is secure file transfer via iOS/Android possible?

Secure File Transfer is available for iOS users. Android users are recommended to use the web application, as there is currently no Android Secure File Transfer feature available.

What is the maximum file size allowed?

The maximum file size allowed is 2 GB. 

I do not know the mobile number of the recipient. How can I send the security code?

As an alternative to SMS delivery, you can also view and copy the security code. To ensure maximum safety for your sent file, we recommend that you do NOT send this code to the recipient via email. Instead, you should use telephone, fax or letter.

How can I send files securely?

A function for secure file sending is automatically integrated into your Digital Fortress account. To use it, simply follow these steps:

  1. Log in to your Digital Fortress from your PC/Mac.
  2. Select the file you want to send in your Digital Fortress.
  3. Click the “Send” button in the top menu bar.
  4. A new window will open. Here, you need to specify the email address of the receiver of the file.
  5. You can write a short message for the receiver of the file if you wish.
  6. If you have a paid account, you can choose to further protect the file with an additional security code sent to the receiver’s mobile.
  7. Once you are ready, hit the “Send” button.
  8. The file will start transmitting.

Also view our tutorial on how to use Secure File Transfer.

My download link has expired. What can I do?

You have the option to extend the validity of a download link. To do so, follow these steps:

  1. Log in to your account via your PC/Mac.
  2. Click the “Show Sent Items” button in the lower right-hand corner of your screen.
  3. A list of all previously sent files will appear.
  4. Click the “Edit” button to the right of the file for which you want to extend the download link availability.
  5. Change the “Validity period” of the download link to suit your needs.
  6. Hit “Save”.

Please note that the receiver will not be notified of this change.

I made a mistake with the email address/mobile number when sending the file. How can I fix this?

Cancelling email delivery is easy (see here). Once you have cancelled the delivery of a file, you can correct any mistakes you may have done and resend the file.

How can I stop/cancel a sent file?

Simply follow these steps: 

  1. Log in to your Digital Fortress from your PC/Mac.
  2. In your File Safe you will find a “Show Sent Items” button in the lower right-hand corner. Click on this.
  3. A list of all your sent documents will appear.
  4. Here you can select and delete any sent file. By choosing this option you will also immediately disable the connected download link so that it can no longer be used.

The download link did not reach the recipient. What can I do?

Please check that you have used the correct email address for the receiver of the file. You can do this by following these steps:

  1. Log in to your account from your PC/Mac.
  2. Click the button “Show Sent Items” in the lower right corner of your Digital Fortress.
  3. A list of all items you’ve sent using Digital Fortress will appear and you can verify you have sent the file to the correct email address.
  4. If the email address was indeed incorrect, please try to resend the file.

For how long is the download link available?

You can determine how long you wish a download link for a sent file to stay available by selecting the “Validity period” option in the sending dialog box. You can choose between 10 minutes, 1 day, 1 week or 1 month. The default option is 1 day. After the validity period has expired, it is no longer available for anyone to access the file via the download link.

Can I change files that have already been sent?

If you want to send the recipient an amended version of a file, it is recommended to cancel the delivery of files sent earlier and adapt the original file before sending it again.

For delivery of files sent through Digital Fortress, an encrypted copy of the file is stored in a temporary safe. If you change an original file after sending it, it will be amended in your Digital Fortress, but the encrypted copy for the receiver will remain the same.

How do I know if the file has been delivered to the receiver?

In your File Safe you will find a “Show Sent Items” button in the lower right-hand corner. Click on this to see an overview of all your sent documents including their download status.

How does Digital Fortress protect the sent files?

In contrast to how standard email delivery works, files sent through Digital Fortress are downloaded by the receiver through the highly secure environment of the Digital Fortress service.

When transferring the file, an encrypted copy is created and stored for the recipient in a temporary Digital Fortress safe. As with every Digital Fortress application, this temporary safe has a complex encryption that can only be decrypted using a token. This token is contained in the download link (and optional security code). This is what ensures the high level of security around file sharing with Digital Fortress.

Data Inheritance

What is data inheritance?

Data inheritance is a built-in Digital Fortress feature that allows you to pass on important passwords and files to chosen beneficiaries (such as family members and life partners) in the case of an emergency or fatality. The transfer will happen automatically and securely.

What do I need to do if I want to pass on data with Data Inheritance?

Before you can activate Data Inheritance, you need to:

  • Store important documents, passwords and files in your private File Safe.
  • Specify beneficiaries who are to be given access to data if anything should happen to you.
  • Specify which data you would like to pass on to whom.
  • Allocate the responsibility to activate Data Inheritance to a trusted person close to you and provide this person with a so-called Activator code.
  • Make sure that the contact information of all your beneficiaries is updated in Digital Fortress.

In the event of an emergency, the Data Inheritance guarantees the safe notification of your beneficiaries and the secure transfer of data according to your specific wishes.

What happens to data that I have not assigned to anyone, when the Data Inheritance is performed?

Documents and passwords, which have not been assigned to anyone, are securely deleted during Data Inheritance.

Who are beneficiaries and what will they receive?

Beneficiaries are people you choose to define as such. Normally, beneficiares will be people from within your circle of loved ones. A beneficiary can inherit any number of files and passwords from you. You alone decide which documents and passwords you would like to allocate to a given beneficiary. Data, which you do not allocate to anyone, will be securely deleted once Data Inheritance had been carried out.

Who activates the Data Inheritance?

You specify one or more persons to be authorized activators, such as your life partner or close friends. These Activators will then be able to activate Data Inheritance by using a so-called Activation code, which you need to provide them with. You do not need a lawyer or other formalities for this process. Furthermore, improper activation is rendered impossible by the safeguarding delay.

How are beneficiaries notified?

When you set up Data Inheritance, you can decide how you wish your beneficiaries to be notified.

Beneficiaries will either receive access codes for the files and passwords (which you have allocated to them) by means of a securely encrypted email or by registered mail sent to any destination worldwide through the Swiss postal service. 

Do I have to notify my beneficiaries that they will be receiving data from me in the future?

No, you do not have to inform the beneficiaries that they will be receiving data at a later date. You should, however, regularly check that you have entered the correct telephone numbers, email addresses and an updated place of residence for all your beneficiaries to ensure that they will indeed be informed of the inherited data when relevant.

What is an Authorised Activator?

Authorized Activators are people you have chosen for the task of activating Data Inheritance should something happen to you. Choose someone you trust, and make sure he, she or they are thoroughly informed about what they need to do to activate Data Inheritance. Also remember to provide them with the activation code, which they will need to activate Data Inheritance. You may designate one or more Authorized Activators. Be aware that the entry of a single Activation Code is sufficient to start Data Inheritance.

How many Authorised Activators do I need?

It is up to you whether you want to ask one or several people to be your Authorised Activator(s). Alternatively, you can append the activation code to your will. Be aware that the entry of a single activation code is sufficient to start Data Inheritance.

How does Digital Fortress know when the Data Inheritance process should be started?

As an account owner, you chose one or more people you trust to be your Authorized Activator(s). You need to hand over instructions and an Activation code to each Activator to insure that he/she knows how to activate Data Inheritance correctly. In the event that anything happens to you, your Activator will start the Data Inheritance process.

Digital Fortress has set a fraud protection system in place which will warn you, that the process has been started, giving you a chance to react, should the activation be fraudulent. Only if you do not react within a specified time interval (specified by yourself) will the process be finalized and your files transferred.

What is the safeguarding delay time?

The safeguarding delay is a period of time, which serves to prevent Data Inheritance from happening without your consent. As soon as one of your Authorized Activators activates Data Inheritance, the safeguarding delay period starts running (e.g. 15 days). During this safeguarding delay period, Digital Fortress will contact you by email and SMS.

If the activation is happening against your will, you can simply log in to your Digital Fortress account as usual and stop the Data Inheritance. If the Data Inheritance is stopped before the safeguarding period ends, the confidentiality of your files remains intact. No data or passwords will have left your File Safe and none of your beneficiaries will have been notified.

How do I test Data Inheritance?

To test Data Inheritance follow these steps:

  1. Log in to your account via your PC/Mac.
  2. Make sure Data Inheritance is activated in your account.
  3. Go to Data Inheritance and click “Settings”.
  4. Click the “View PDF” button in the lower right hand corner of your screen to download and print out a copy of the Activator code.
  5. Now log out of your Digital Fortress.
  6. As described on the activation code document, go here.
  7. Enter the 36-figure activation code into the appropriate fields.
  8. Click “Start Data Inheritance”.
  9. As an account holder, you can now verify that you are indeed notified by email and SMS about the activation of Data Inheritance in your safe.

BE AWARE: You have now activated Data Inheritance for your Digital Fortress and the transfer of documents will be completed if you do not log in to your safe and deactivate Data Inheritance before the Safeguarding period has run out.

How can I stop the data inheritance process?

If Data Inheritance is activated for your account, we will notify you by email and SMS. If the activation is faulty, simply log in to your account and deactive the process. You will see an unmistakable notice informing you that the data inheritance process is running. You can now simply stop the process.

Remember that you need to deactivate Data Inheritance before the safeguarding delay period (chosen by you) has expired. If you deactivate Data Inheritance within this time frame, confidentiality is ensured as before. No data or passwords will have left your File Safe and none of your beneficiaries will have been notified.

How do I set up Data Inheritance?

You can download a step by step guide on how to set up Data Inheritance here.

You can also follow the Data Inheritance setup wizard integrated in your Digital Fortress. To do so follow these steps:

  1. Log in to your account via your PC/Mac.
  2. Choose your private safe.
  3. Click the “Data Inheritance” tab in the lower left hand side corner of your screen.
  4. Click “Setup Wizard”.
  5. Follow the instructions to complete the necessary steps for the Data Inheritance setup.

Security

How safe is the login?

Digital Fortress has implemented the “secure remote password protocol” (SRP) to protect your login credentials. The method was invented at Stanford University by Tom Wu (RFC 2945). Using SRP, Digital Fortress provides maximum security against internet threats like eavesdropping and dictionary attacks while remaining easy to use. Another important aspect of SRP is that SecureSafe does not need to store neither your password nor any one-way function of the password anywhere. Consequently, your passwords and documents are not exposed to accidental data loss or malicious data-leakage risks.

More information on this topic under http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Secure_remote_password_protocol.

What is strong SMS authorization?

As a part of our promise to provide maximum security for our customers, Digital Fortress offers a strong authentication method called mTAN to all paying customers. We recommend our customers to make use of this additional strong security feature. With mTAN activated, the user will be asked to type in a one-time password, that is delivered to him/her by text-message (SMS), every time he or she log in to Digital Fortress. This so-called mTAN is proven to be more secure than many other 2-factor authentication methods such as TAN or iTAN.

Our 2-factor authentication is included in Password PRO, SILVER and GOLD.

Read more about 2-factor authentication and DoubleSec.

What is 2-factor authentication?


A username/password combination is still the most common method of authentication for users on the Internet. However, more and more online services are changing over to the so-called 2-factor authentication to ensure that critical login information cannot be detected or intercepted.

The first part of a 2-factor login is based on something the user ‘knows’, such as a username/ password-combination, while the second factor is based on something he or she ‘own’ like an iTAN, a scratchcard or a mobile phone to which a one time security code can be sent for each login. This ensures a maximum level of protection for your login and thus the data in your account.

What is DoubleSec?

DoubleSec is a highly secure login technology for mobile devices invented by Digital Fortress. Through DoubleSec, you can enjoy the advantages of 2-factor authentication on your mobile devices without having to enter an additional security code each time you log in. The second step of the 2-factor authentication is simply automatized after an initial login.

How do I enable DoubleSec?

DoubleSec is available to all paying Digital Fortress customers. To activate it follow these simple steps:

  1. Log in to your account using your PC or Mac (not via your smart phone).
  2. Select the top right button “My Account” and add your mobile number under the “Contact Details” tab if it is not already there.
  3. Under the “Login & Password” tab select “Secure login with username, password and SMS (mTAN)”.
  4. Click “Save and close” to save you settings.
  5. If you haven’t already done so, we highly recommend that you print your Account Recovery Code and store it in a safe place.
  6. Should you loose you phone, this will be the ONLY means with which you can regain access to your Digital Fortress.

You’re now ready to set up 2-factor authentication on your phone. Follow these steps:

  1. Start the mobile app.
  2. After entering your username and password, you will receive a PIN code via SMS.
  3. The first time you log in with 2-factor authentication, you need to enter the code into the app manually.
  4. Afterwards the process is automated and you can log in as usual.

Your mobile device is now tied to your account with the highest level of security!

Is my data also encrypted in the RAM?

Yes. Strong encryption is a core quality and competence of the Digital Fortress application. Therefore we also encrypt passwords in the memory of the user’s computer when the Digital Fortress password safe is in use. Only when a single password is actually viewed or used by a user, will it be decrypted and displayed temporarily.

How is my data protected on the iPhone/iPad/iPod?

Digital Fortress encrypts all data stored on an iPhone, iPod or iPad using a strong AES-256 key and only decrypts passwords on demand. This ensures that even if a malicious application on a user’s device would be able to read the local Digital Fortress database, it would not be able to access any of the passwords or data stored in it. All passwords and data stored in a Digital Fortress are secured against iPhone/iPod/iPad-theft in this way.

How is the transporting of data protected?

Digital Fortress uses strong security EV SSL certificates (so called Extended Validation) certificates. You can recognize the certificates in your browser’s URL bar, as the company name or the whole URL field is shown with a green background (depending on the browser). All of the data that is passed to Digital Fortress servers is encrypted with the strong SSL keys.

In addition, using a unique session key, that is established in a secure way during each login, all password safe entries, meta data and user data is double encrypted, such that even “man in the middle attackers” targeting the SSL-session cannot access that data.

This session-specific key also prevents replay-attacks because all encrypted data look different during each session. This fact theoretically allows the secure transfer of the Digital Fortress data safe over channels without SSL protection. In practice, however, we always protect data through SSL as well.

For the Digital Fortress-Client (used to synchronize documents between your Digital Fortress and local device): In addition to SSL, your data is protected by a session specific key while being transferred between your Digital Fortress and your local device.

Which encryption methods are used to protect my data?

Digital Fortress encrypts all user data with highly secure and worldwide acknowledged encryption methods (RFC 2898). Neither hackers nor Digital Fortress staff members can ever access user data or information that is stored with Digital Fortress. We make use of well-established cryptographic standards such as AES-256 and RSA-2048, without compromise. Both standards provide a proven security for many years to come.

How does Digital Fortress support me in choosing strong passwords?

Digital Fortress has designed and developed a new way to generate easy-to-remember yet strong passwords. We also show you how secure a password really is directly in the password safe.

Where are your redundant data centers located?

The Digital Fortress application and data storage – and therefore all client data – are only hosted with highly secure data centers located in Switzerland. These data centers further comply with the specific regulations of the Swiss Federal Banking Commission to ensure maximum physical and digital security.

Is the security of Digital Fortress regularly checked?

Digital Fortress subscribes to the McAfee Secure service that performs vulnerability scans and compliance checks of Digital Fortress’ web services on a daily basis. Please note the corresponding seal shown on the bottom of this page. Clicking on the seal will reveal the latest scan reports.

Where can I find more information about the security and confidentiality of Digital Fortress?

You will find further information about the security measures behind Digital Fortress under Security.

Mobile App

How can I move/rename/delete a file or folder?

Currently this is only possible in the web application. You can access this from your Mac / PC here. 

How can I import documents to the Digital Fortress iOS app?

With the iOS App, you can upload arbitrary files to your Digital Fortress. This process works slightly different in iOS than what you may know from computers – instead of opening a document in Digital Fortress, you need to “pass” it on to Digital Fortress from another app. Whether that app supports this process is indicated by the presence of the following “Open In” icon:

support/iOS_Icon-01.jpg

If you press this icon, a list with all the apps that support the appropriate document type is shown.

To upload a document using the “Open In” function, follow these steps:

  1. Click on the above icon in any app.
  2. Select “SecureSafe” in the displayed list.
  3. Log in with your username and password.
  4. Select the desired file name and destination folder for the document.

How do I securely send files with the iOS app?

Simply open the mobile app on your iPhone or iPad, go to your File Safe and choose a file. Then click the send icon in the top left corner of your screen and choose “Send securely”. You will now have the option to fill in the email address of the recipient and write a short message to him or her if you wish. Once you’re ready to send your file, hit “Send” in the top right corner of your screen.

Tip: Swipe over any file, you want to send, or hold down your finger over it for more than a second and you will automatically be presented with the “Send securely”-option.

How can I protect files I send with the iOS app additionally?

If you have a paid account, you have the option to further protect the files you send with the iOS app. Simply swipe the “Security code required for access”-option and put in the phone number of the recipient in the appropriate field. Now, when you send your file to the recipient’s email, you will also be sending an additional security code directly to his/her phone by SMS. He/she will need this code to access and download your file.

Tip: For particularly sensitive files, you may want to limit the time period in which a file stays accessible for the recipient to download. By default, this time span is set to 1 week, but you can change this in the bottom of your screen.

Team Space

Can I use Team Spaces if I don’t have a private Digital Fortress account?

When you create a Team Space, you automatically receive a private File Safe to store your personal files and passwords. If you already have a Digital Fortress account with a private safe, you can create separate Team Spaces directly from within this account. This way you only need one login to access your personal and team data. You private safe and Team Spaces always stay strictly separated and no member of your Team Spaces can ever access your personal files.

How do I use the Team Space price calculator?

If you have an existing Digital Fortress account with at least 1 Team Space 

  1. Log in to your Digital Fortress web account from a computer.
  2. Choose the tab of the Team Space, which you would like to upgrade / prolong.
  3. Click “Settings” in the left hand side of your screen.
  4. Choose “Profile and Subscription”.
  5. Click “Prolong subscription”.
  6. You will now see the Team Space calculator for this specific Team Space.
  7. If you have a voucher code, put this into the field “Voucher (optional)” to see your price reduction.
  8. Adjust the number of members in your Team Space to fit your future needs and the calculator will show you the new price for your Team Space.
  9. Adjust the number of months you would like to prolong your Team Space subscription for and your new price will be shown.
  10. If you would like to upgrade / prolong your Team Space subscription, simply click “Go to payment” once you are happy with the chosen settings.

This calculator only works for single Team Space subscriptions, which can be bought online and not for billed products such as the business bundle. If you have any questions about how to upgrade / prolong your Team-Space, please contact [email protected]. We’ll be happy to help.

How do I accept a Team Space invitation?

You will find a step by step guide on how to accept a Team Space invitation here. 

How can I prolong / renew a Team Space?

To renew / prolong one of your existing Team-Spaces, simply follow these steps:

  1. Log in to your Digital Fortress from your Mac/PC.
  2. Go to the Team-Space you would like to prolong / renew.
  3. Click the “Settings” tab in the lower left hand corner.
  4. Choose “Profile & Subscription” in the options menu appearing directly under the “Settings” tab.
  5. Now click the “Prolong subscription” button in the center of your screen.
  6. A new window will appear. From here you can choose the number of months you would like to prolong your subscription.
  7. Choose your preferred currency in the drop down menu “Total price”.
  8. Click “Go to Payment“.
  9. You will be redirected to our payment system and can complete the purchase.

If you would like to upgrade your shared storage quota, please contact [email protected] and we’ll be happy to help you.

How can I upgrade a Team Space and add more members?

To upgrade your Team-Space and add more members to it, simply follow these steps:

  1. Log in to your account from your Mac/PC.
  2. Go to the Team-Space you would like to upgrade.
  3. Click the “Settings” tab in the lower left hand corner.
  4. Choose “Profile & Subscription” in the options menu appearing directly under the “Settings” tab.
  5. Now click the “Add members” button in the center of your screen.
  6. A new window will appear. Here, you can add members to your Team-Space.
  7. Choose your preferred currency in the drop down menu “Total price”.
  8. Click “Go to Payment“.
  9. You will be redirected to our payment system and can complete the purchase.

How do I delete a Team Space?

To delete a Team-Space, follow these steps:

  1. Log in to your account from your Mac/PC.
  2. Click the Team-Space you want to delete.
  3. Choose the tab “Settings”.
  4. Choose “Delete Team-Space”.

What are tabs?

Tabs are Team-Spaces or special inboxes which allow you to share data or receive data. Tabs are located to the right of your Private-Safe in the main menu as shown below.

support/Team-Space_tabs.png

Can I track the activity within a Team Space?

Yes, an Activity Viewer is always included in a Team Space. With it you can see which team member last edited or uploaded a document.

Can a team member still access data after he/she has been removed from a Team Space?

No. Once a member has been deleted from a Team Space, they loose all permissions and access to the data within it. They can, however, continue to use their private Digital Fortress.

How can I remove a team member from a Team Space?

You can remove a member from a Team-Space at any time if you are administrator of it. Simply follow these steps:

  1. Log in to your Digital Fortress from your PC/Mac.
  2. Click the Team-Space from which you want to remove a member.
  3. Click the “Members” tab.
  4. Click on the name of the member you want to remove.
  5. Use the “Delete Member” button to complete the removal.

What are Team Spaces?

Team Spaces are the perfect solution for project teams, SMEs, consultants, administrators and lawyers. They make it easy to collaborate, share and sync files within teams, companies and organisations externally and internally.

Furthermore, Team Spaces are ideal for sharing of confidential and business sensitive information as they are protected by the same sophisticated encryption as every Digital Fortress product. It is easy to create a Team Space.

Can I also access my Team Space via my iPhone/iPad or Android phone?

Yes, you can access the stored data in your Team Space at any time and from anywhere using an iPhone, iPad or Android smartphone.

Can data in a Team Space also be inherited?

Data stored in a Team Space cannot be inherited. Data Inheritance is available exclusively for data stored in the private File Safe of a Digital Fortress account. If a member leaves your team, you can simply remove them from the Team Space using the administrator rights. You can then add a new member, who will automatically have full access to all the documents stored in the Team Space.

How much storage space do you receive with a Team Space?

A paid Team-Space includes a 10 GB data storage capacity so that you will have enough space for all your files without having to worry about storage space ever again.

How does the 30-Day Team Space Trial work?

Try Team-Spaces absolutely free for 30 days. A free trial version can be created for 2 users with a storage capacity of 100 MB. If you decide to continue using Team-Spaces after trying it out, simply upgrade to a paid Team-Space. The data you stored during the trial period will remain in your Team-Space.

What is the difference between a Team Space and a private safe?

A private Digital Fortress account does not have team functionality. With the addition of a Team-Space, you can securely store, share and exchange documents with colleagues and/or customers from a common platform. When you are logged in to your Digital Fortress, any Team-Space that you are a member of will appear as a separate tab directly above the top menu bar.

support/Team-Space_tabs.png

Only members of a Team-Space have access to the files in this specific safe. You always remain the only person who can see the documents and passwords stored in your private safe.

Can I keep my private safe to store personal data if I create a Team Space?

Yes. Team Spaces always come with a private safe where you can store personal files. Your private safe is only visible to you and will be visibly separated from the Team Space(s). Once logged in to Digital Fortress, you can access both your personal safe as well as any Team Space you are a member of.

Can I use my existing Digital Fortress account to create a Team Space?

Yes. If you have an existing Digital Fortress account you can create a Team Space from within your account – this way you only need to remember one login and password. Simply follow these steps:

  1. Log in to your Digital Fortress from any PC/Mac.
  2. Click the plus sign in the top menu bar ( support/Create_Team_Space_Button.png).
  3. Your Team Space will appear as a separate tab within your private Digital Fortress account.
  4. You can now start inviting members and sharing files in the Team Space.

There will be a clear separation between your shared and personal documents and no member of your Team Space will ever be able to see or access the files in your personal file safe in any way.

I need a Team Space for more than 10 users. Does Digital Fortress offer discounts for large numbers of users?

Please contact our sales team here to discuss your requirements and we will be happy to make you an offer.

User Administration

What is a Team Space role?

With Team Space roles, you can assign individual rights to members in a Team Space. For example, this enables you to make sure that some members can only read the documents and files in a Team Space but not change them.

Read more about the specific roles and the rights attached to each of them here.

Which different roles can one assign a Team Space member?

You can assign the following roles to a Team Space member:

  • Administrator: An administrator has full rights to all files and documents in a Team Space meaning he/she can view, download, edit, remove and add files. Furthermore, the administrator can add and remove members, as well as change the role of each member.
  • Editor: An editor has full rights to all data in a Team Space meaning he/she can view, download, edit, remove and add files. However, the editor cannot invite new members nor change the role and rights of existing members.
  • Viewer: A viewer can only read and download files and documents in a Team Space (using SecureViewer or mobile app access). He or she cannot edit existing nor upload new files to the safe. Moreover a viewer cannot edit, add or remove Team Space members.
  • Restricted Viewer: A restricted viewer can only read documents (using SecureViewer or mobile app access), but not download these. This role can be assigned to protect sensitive content from a Team Space from extraction.Moreover a restricted viewer cannot edit, add or remove Team Space members.
  • Archiver: An archiver can view, download and upload files, but not edit or delete them. With these permissions, this member will automatically treat a Team Space as a so-called digital archive. However, strictly speaking, it is not a digital archive unless all members of the Team Space are assigned the archiver role and you have requested Digital Fortress to formally change the Team Space into a digital archive.

Where can I choose a role for a new Team Space member?

You will be able choose a role for a Team Space member when you invite him or her to the Team Space.

Learn how to edit roles of existing members here.

How can I edit the role of a Team Space member?

An administrator of a Team Space can always change the role and rights of another member. To do so follow these steps:

  1. Log in to your Digital Fortress via any web browser.
  2. Choose the Team Space in which you would like to edit the role of a member.
  3. Click the member tab in the left hand side of your screen.
  4. Choose the member you would like to assign a new role.
  5. Click the “Edit member” button in the top menu bar.
  6. A new window will appear with a drop down menu allowing you to choose the role you want to assign to that member. Select the role and click “Save”.
  7. The new rights will apply instantly.

Which roles can use the Digital Fortress Client for Mac/PC?

All roles, which have the right to download documents from a Team Space, can use the Digital Fortress Client to sync that Team Space with their PC/Mac. Only Restricted Viewers cannot use the Digital Fortress Client for the particular Team Space(s) where this role has been assigned to them. We also do NOT recommend using the Digital Fortress Client for Team Spaces, in which you are configured to be an Archiver. Read why here.

Note that the Digital Fortress Client will report an error and mark the configuration as invalid if a Restricted Viewer tries to add a Team-Space to the list of items he or she syncs to a local device.

Can the Team Space role be changed in the Enterprise Portal?

At the moment, you can get an overview of the rights of different members in the Enterprise Portal. We are planning to add the options to administer rights directly from the portal in the future.

What is a digital archive and how can I use it?

In a digital archive, data cannot be edited once uploaded. This ensures that all files uploaded to the archive will be retrievable in their original state at any point in time.

With the help of the Digital Fortress team, you can turn any of your Team Spaces into a digital archive if you wish. Be aware that all members of such a Team Space need to be assigned the archiver role.

Please contact [email protected] if you would like to use a Team Space as a digital archive.

Can I configure a Team Space to be a digital archive by myself?

No, due to restrictions in the software, only Digital Fortress personnel can make the adjustments needed for you to use your Team Space as a digital archive. 

Is the archiver role supported by the Digital Fortress Client?

Due to restrictions in the operating systems of Windows and OSX, the Digital Fortress Client does not fully support the archiver role. Specifically, it does not prevent a member with the archiver role from editing and/or deleting files on his/her local computer, which are being synchronized to the Team Space, in which he/she is archiver.

If an archiver edits shared files, the Digital Fortress Client will show an error message to warn the administrator, however it cannot automatically recover the original version of the edited files. We therefore recommend NOT using the Digital Fortress Client for Team-Spaces, in which you are configured to be an archiver.

What is the difference between an ‘archiver’ and a ‘digital archive’?

An archiver is a Team Space role. Members with this role can upload and view files, but not edit or delete them.

A “digital archive” is a Team Space, in which all members are assigned the archiver role. If you want to use a Team Space as a digital archive, please contact [email protected] as we need to set your archive up for you. Once you have turned a Team Space into an digital archive, all content uploaded to it can no longer be altered and/or deleted ensuring the integrity of the files you store here for the long-term.

File Synchronisation

How does 2-Factor Authentication work with the Digital Fortress Client?

As for our mobile apps, the Digital Fortress Client uses DoubleSec for 2-Factor Authentication. When prompted for your login information the first time you open the Digital Fortress Client, you will need to enter an additional security code. However, after your first login DoubleSec automatizes this process for you, so you only need to enter your username and password to access the client even though you have activated 2-factor authentication.

For more information about DoubleSec, please click here or contact [email protected].

Why is renaming a synced folder directly from my PC/Mac a problem?

To exemplify, imagine that you rename the folder “Sales_A” to “Sales_B” directly on your PC/Mac. The Digital Fortress Client will proceed as follow:

  • Create a completely new, empty folder called “Sales_B”.
  • Delete all contents in the folder called “Sales_A” including sub folders and files from your web account (they will still be kept on your PC/Mac).
  • Upload all sub folders with their content in the new folder “Sales_B”.

If you renamed a top level folder with many sub folders and files in its folder structure, the complete synchronization process is likely to be quite lengthy. Furthermore, if you are sharing your files in a Team Space, the process will be run on all team members computers.

We are working on providing you with an improved version of the Digital Fortress Client addressing this issue. Currently the best way to proceed when renaming folders is to follow these instructions.

Can I rename synced folders directly from my PC/Mac?

It is possible to rename synced folders directly from your PC/Mac. However, we do not recommend renaming folders from your PC/Mac if:

  • a folders contains a large amount of data
  • a folder contains a complicated folder structure

If you would like to rename a sub folder, which contains a large amount of data or a complicated folder structure, please follow these instructions below:

  • On your PC/Mac, start by logging out of the Digital Fortress Client (if you are logged in).
  • Then log in to your online Digital Fortress account via any browser.
  • Identify the folder you would like to rename.
  • Rename the folder directly in your online account.
  • Now identify the same folder on your PC/Mac and rename it.
  • Check that both folders have been renamed with the exact same name.
  • Finish by logging in to the Digital Fortress Client and it will synchronize the changes you have made instantaneously.

NOTE: If a folder has an icon on it, never rename it directly from your PC/Mac. This is a system critical folder and the Digital Fortress Client will no longer be able to find it if you do.

How can I rename a synced sub folder?

If you want to rename any of your synced sub folders follow these steps:

  • On your PC/Mac, start by logging out of the Digital Fortress Client (if you are logged in).
  • Then log in to your online Digital Fortress account via any browser.
  • Identify the folder you would like to rename.
  • Rename the folder directly in your online account.
  • Now identify the same folder on your PC/Mac and rename it.
  • Check that both folders have been renamed with the exact same name.
  • Finish by logging in to the Digital Fortress Client and it will synchronize the changes you have made instantaneously.

How to uninstall the Digital Fortress Client on a PC

  • Log in to the Digital Fortress Client from your PC.
  • Start by choosing „Sync all“ to make sure that all recent changes you have made to files have been synchronized to the Digital Fortress web application (your online account).
  • Once the synchronization is complete, choose the „File Sync Settings“ tab.
  • Click each item in the sync folder list, then click the minus button at the end of the list to remove the item (items must be removed one by one).
  • Once the sync folder list is empty, you no longer synchronize any changes you make to local folders with the web application.
  • Quit the Digital Fortress Client (do not just log out, but right click the Digital Fortress icon and choose “Quit”).
  • Proceed by deleting all the folders that have been created by the Digital Fortress Client on your PC.
  • You are now ready to uninstall the Digital Fortress Client. To do so, go to the “Control Panel” of your PC.
  • From here choose “Programs and features” and search for “Digital Fortress” in the list.
  • Once you have found the Digital Fortress Client, right click it and choose “Uninstall”.
  • Accept to uninstall the software and wait until the process is complete.
  • To make sure that all settings from the Digital Fortress Client are completely deleted from your computer, go to “This PC” and select your Local Disk (C:).
  • From here, search for the file “com.dswiss.securesafe.db3” and delete it (see image below)

FAQs/SecureSafe-Client-Uninstall.png

  • If you used the option “Login automatically when Digital Fortress starts” for the Digital Fortress Client, then your credentials are stored in the registry. You can remove them by copy pasting the following text into Command Prompt and hitting enter: “reg DELETE HKCU\Software\DSwiss\securesafe”.
    • Not sure how to open Command Prompt? It only takes a few seconds. Find instructions here.

If you would like to reinstall the Digital Fortress Client, please follow these instructions.

How to uninstall the Digital Fortress Client on a Mac

  • Log in to the Digital Fortress Client from your Mac.
  • Start by choosing „Sync all“ to make sure that all recent changes you have made to files have been synchronized to the Digital Fortress web application (your online account).
  • Once the synchronization is complete, choose the „File Sync Settings“ tab.
  • Click each item on the list, then click the minus button at the end of the list to remove the item (items must be removed one by one).
  • Once the item list is empty, log out of the Digital Fortress Client.
  • Proceed by deleting all the folders that have been created by the Digital Fortress Client on your Mac.
  • You are now ready to uninstall the Digital Fortress Client.
  • To make sure that all settings from the Digital Fortress Client are completely deleted, download and install the tool AppZapper for free here: http://www.appzapper.com/ (you may also use other uninstall tools if preferred).
  • Once you have installed AppZapper, open it. From your applications folder, drag and drop you Digital Fortress application to the AppZapper.
  • This will allow you to completely uninstall the Digital Fortress Client including all hidden settings made by it.
  • If you would like to reinstall the Digital Fortress Client, please follow these instructions.

For more information about the Digital Fortress Client, please click here.

I get the message "Folder already synced" when I try to add a folder to the sync list, what do I do?

Do you have a folder on your PC or Mac with an icon that does not appear in the sync folder list of your Digital Fortress? If you try to add such a folder to your sync folder list, the Digital Fortress Client will show the error message, “This folder is already being synchronized“. here’s what to do:
If you want to add a top level folder (equivalent to your Private Safe, Mail-In or a Team-Space in your online Digital Fortress account):

  • On your PC/Mac, rename the top level folder that you cannot add to your sync folder list (for example call it “ExistingName_1”).
  • Log in to the Digital Fortress Client and click on the tab “File Safe” tab, then click “Synchronized Folders”.
  • Click the plus sign at the bottom of the sync folder list.
  • In the dialog box that appears, choose the top level folder that you have just renamed to the list and add it to your sync folder list.
  • Make sure to define the correct path for the folder under “Local Folder”. This ensures that the Digital Fortress Clients know where to find the folder locally.
  • Click “Save” to save all changes made.

If you want to add a sub folder: 

  • On your PC/Mac, go to the local Digital Fortress folder, which you cannot add to the sync folder list because the Digital Fortress Client has registered it as “already synced”.
  • Rename the folder (for example: ExistingName_1).
  • In the Digital Fortress Client, go to the tab „File Safe“ and choose the section “Synchronized Folders”.
  • Click the plus sign at the bottom of the sync folder list.
  • In the dialog box that appears, choose the top level folder which includes the sub folder you have just renamed.
  • Now click “Next”.
  • Another dialog box appears. Here, click the drop down menu “Folder in Safe” and choose “Select Specific Folder”.
  • Wait a minute for a new dialog box to appear, then choose the sub folder you have renamed (be aware that it will appear here with its original name).
  • Finish by defining the new path for the local folder under “Local Folder”. This ensures that the Digital Fortress Clients know where to find the folder locally.
  • Click “Save” to save all changes made.

How can I move a folder that I’m synchronizing with the Digital Fortress Client?

  • Log in to the Digital Fortress Client from your PC or Mac.
  • Choose the tab “File Safe”. Here you will see a list of all the parts of your Digital Fortress that you are currently synchronizing between your PC/Mac and the Digital Fortress web application. For example, the image below shows that the top level folders “Client Miller”, “Internal Collaboration”, “Mail In” and “Private Digital Fortress” are being synchronized.
  • Following the example above, if you wanted to move the folder “Client Miller” to a new location on your PC/Mac, you would go to its current location on your Mac/PC by double clicking the item „Client Miller “ (marked with dark grey in the image above).
  • Now you can move the folder to anywhere you would like on your computer.
  • After moving the folder, it is very important to manually instruct the Digital Fortress Client where to find it for future synchronization. To do so, go back to the Digital Fortress Client and make sure you have still chosen the tab “File Safe”.
  • Go to the “Synchronized Folders” section of the file safe.
  • Choose the folder that you have just moved to a new location.
  • Click on the minus sign (bottom of the sync folder list) to remove it from the list.
  • In the dialog box that appears, choose “yes” to confirm the action.
  • Now click the plus sign (bottom of the sync folder list) and add the very same folder to the sync list again.
  • In the dialog box that appears, choose the folder and click “Next”.
  • You can now adjust the local path for the folder so the Digital Fortress Client knows its new location. (The image below shows where to click to adjust the path).

  • Once you have adjusted the local path to match the new location, choose “Save”.
  • A dialog box opens asking you to create the folder locally. Choose “yes” to complete the action.
  • Done! The Digital Fortress Client will synchronize your folder from its new location in the future.

 

If you would like to move more than one folder to a new location, you can do so at the same time. Simply remember to always log in to the Digital Fortress Client, remove the folder your have adjusted from the sync folder list and ad it again with its new local path to ensure that the client will keep synchronizing it.

How can I remove folders and sub folders from the sync folder list?

You decide, which folders and sub folders you want to synchronize between your online Digital Fortress account and your PC/Mac and which ones should only be stored in your online Digital Fortress. To stop synchronizing chosen sub folders, you need to reorganize your Digital Fortress. The easiest way to to this is by following these steps:

  • Before you do anything else, we recommend that you create a backup of the current folder structure, which you would like to make changes to. This is simply an additional safety measure. You can delete the backup completely once you have successfully adapted your sync folder list and all changes appear correctly in your web account, in the Digital Fortress Client and on your PC/Mac.
  • STEP 1: Adapt your local Digital Fortress folder 
    • From you PC/Mac, go to the Digital Fortress folder in which you would like to make changes. Be aware that this must be a folder equivalent to a tab in your online Digital Fortress account – for example the folder representing your “Private Safe” or one of your Team Spaces. In the image below the local folder for “Private Digital Fortress” has been chosen.

    FAQs/5 Private SecureSafe in local folder.png

    • Create two new sub folders in this folder. We suggest you name one “Folders_Synced” and the other“Folders_Not_Synced”.

    FAQs/6 Create two new folders locally.png

    • Move all the sub folders you want to synchronize into the first folder (in the example the folder called“Folders_Synced”).
    • Move all the sub folders you do not want to synchronize into the second folder (in the example the folder called “Folders_Not_Synced”).

    FAQs/9 Overview of the new organisation locally.png

    • Double check that you have organised the folders according to your wishes.

     

  • STEP 2: Make changes in your Digital Fortress Client 
    • Log in to the Digital Fortress Client, choose the tab “File Safe”, go to the section “Synced Folders” and choose the folder you have just made changes to. Click the grey “Sync”-button to synchronize these changes with your online account.

    FAQs/Sync_2.1.7_FAQ.png

    • Once the synchronization is complete, click the minus sign at the bottom of the sync folder list to remove the item from your sync folder list.
    • A dialog box appears asking if you want to remove the item from the sync folder list. Choose “Yes”.

    FAQs/Sync_2.1.7_FAQ_Remove_Folder.png

    • Now click the plus sign at the bottom of the sync folder list.
    • In the dialog box that appears, choose the folder, which you have just edited. Then click “Next”.
    • Another dialog box appears. Here, click the drop-down menu “Folder in Safe” and choose “Select Specific Folder”.

    FAQs/Sync_2.1.7_FAQ_Select_Folder.png

    • Wait a minute for a new dialog box to appear, then choose the sub folder you have created for folders you want to synchronize (in the example the folder called “Folders_Synced“).

    FAQs/Sync_2.1.7_FAQ_Synced_Folder.png

    • Go on to click “Select”. Be aware that the Digital Fortress Client perceives this as a completely new folder to be synchronized. Hence it will create a new local folder and a unique name for it.

    FAQs/Sync_2.1.7_FAQ_Ready_to_sync.png

    • Finish by choosing “Save”.
    • A dialog box appears informing you that the local folder “Folders_Synced” does not exist. It asks if you would like to create it. Choose “yes”.
    • You will now see the new item in your sync folder list. Click “Sync” to synchronize its content to your new local folder and your online account. Wait until the synchronization has finished completely. 

    FAQs/Sync_2.1.7_FAQ_Synced.png

    • This new folder and all of it’s sub folders will be synchronized between your computer and your Digital Fortress account online in the future.
    • The other folder (named “Folders_Not_Synced” in the example) will only be kept in your online Digital Fortress account. Nb: If you want to add files to it in the future, you will have to log in to your Digital Fortress to manually upload these.
    • To avoid confusion we strongly recommend that you now delete the old folder from your PC or Mac completely i .e by move it to trash and choose “Empty trash”.

     

Can the Digital Fortress Client be used behind a proxy server?

Yes, the Digital Fortress Client behaves transparently behind a proxy server i.e. it uses the settings that are configured in the operating system. We have successfully tested a range of HTTP proxies. Should you encounter issues with a distinct product, please make sure that the Digital Fortress URLs are not blocked or please contact [email protected].

How is my data protected in transport between Digital Fortress and the local folder?

In addition to SSL, your data is protected by a session specific key while being transferred between your online Digital account and your local PC/Mac. This ensures that your data cannot be accessed by anyone but you.

Do you plan to release a Linux Client?

At the moment we’re fully focused on improving the Mac/PC Client and for this reason we’re not planning to release a Linux Client any time soon. 

What is the Digital Fortress Client for Mac and PC?

The Digital Fortress Client will allow you to sync all of your Digital Fortress files to your local Mac or PC. This makes it even easier for you to work with and share files that are stored in your Digital Fortress – and to keep them in sync at all times.  

How can I add a new Team Space to my local Digital Fortress folder?

If a new Team Space is added to your Digital Fortress via the web application, you will automatically be asked if and where you would like to synchronize it to your local device (PC or Mac).

If you neglect this or if you wish to add the Team Space to your local device at a later point in time, follow these steps:

  • From your PC or Mac, open the Digital Fortress Client.
  • Choose the “File Safe” tab, then click the “Synchronized Folders” section.
  • Proceed to click on the „+“-sign at the bottom of the sync folders list.
  • You can now add any Team Space you wish to your list.

Will my files still be saved in my Digital Fortress if I delete them from the local folder?

All changes that you make to your local Digital Fortress folder on your PC/Mac will be synchronized with your Digital Fortress online. However, if you happen to delete a file by mistake, you can always retrieve it from the trash folder in your online Digital Fortress account, which will keep a copy of all deleted files so long as you don’t choose the option “Empty trash”.

There are files/folders in my Digital Fortress folders that aren't synced. Why might that be?

If you experience that certain files or folders in your local folder aren’t being synced to your Digital Fortress, it may be because of one of the following issues:

You may have used an incompatible character in the files or folder name(s). Check to see if any of the following characters are used in a file or folder name and rename them if so:

  •  / (forward slash)
  •  \ (backslash)
  •  < (less than)
  •  > (greater than)
  •  : (colon)
  •  ” (double quote)
  •  | (vertical bar or pipe)
  •  ? (question mark)
  •  * (asterisk)

Also note, that the following file types are ignored by the Digital Fortress Client meaning they will not be synced to your Digital Fortress:

  • name begins with or ends with an empty space or tab
  • empty files (size 0 bytes)
  • folders and files with names that contain more than 128 characters
  • desktop.ini
  • thumbs.db
  • Thumbs.db
  • .ds_store
  • .thumbnails
  • .Temporary Items
  • .Trashes
  • .DS_Store
  • .Document Revisions-V100
  • .fseventd
  • .apdisk
  • .svn
  • .htaccess
  • .securesafe.*
  • .*conflicted copy.*

Furthermore, if you exceed the storage limit for your Digital Fortress, all files you add to your local Digital Fortress folder after this point will not be uploaded to your safe.

How can I adjust the frequency with which the Digital Fortress Client syncs my files?

You can manually set how often you would like the Client to synchronize your files.

To do so follow these steps:

  • Log into the Digital Fortress Client.
  • Choose the “Settings” tab.
  • Manually adjust the “Sync Frequency” bar to suit your wishes.

In which folder can I find the synced data on my computer?

Your local Digital Fortress folders will be easy to identify from other folders on your computer thanks to an icon that will show on any top level folder synced from your safe.

Follow these steps to find any of your local Digital Fortress folders:

  • Open the Digital Fortress Client (version 2.2.1 or later).
  • Choose the File Safe tab, then click “Synchronized Folders”.
  • You will see a list of all the items, which you are synchronising between your online Digital Fortress account and your Mac/PC.
  • Double click on any element in this list and you will be directed to the local folder immediately.

How often will the Digital Fortress Client sync my files?

The Digital Fortress client will automatically sync your files every 5 minutes. If wanted, you can also manually set how often you would like the Digital Fortress Client to synchronize your files.

To do so follow these steps:

  • Log in to the Digital Fortress Client.
  • Choose the “Settings” tab.
  • Manually adjust the “Sync Frequency” bar to suit your wishes.

The Digital Fortress Client isn't working. What do I do?

  • The Digital Fortress Client may have quit unexpectedly without notifying you as a user. If this seems to have happened, try to reopen it by double clicking the Digital Fortress icon in your Programs overview (PC) or applications folder (Mac), then reactivate the client by clicking the yellow “Sync All” button.
  • If you are experiencing any other issues, please contact [email protected]. Please include the following information in your email:
    • what operating system are you using (OS, Windows or Linux – including which version)?
    • describe the problem and what steps you went through before it occurred
    • we are grateful for any screenshots of error messages or what you see on your screen when the problem occurs

I already have an old version of the Digital Fortress Client. How can I update?

To update your Digital Fortress Client, follow these steps:

For PC: Start by logging out of the Digital Fortress Client. Go to the control panel of your computer and choose “Programs and Features”. Search for the icon, click it and choose “de-install”. Accept to complete the de-installation of the Digital Fortress Client. Now, simply follow the above step-by-step tutorial to install the newest version of the Digital Fortress Client on your PC.

For Mac: Start by logging out of the Digital Fortress Client. Go to your applications folder, search for the icon and drag and drop it into your trash. To completely delete the old version, empty trash. Now, you can simply follow the above step-by-step tutorial to install the newest version of the Digital Fortress Client on your Mac.

How to install the Digital Fortress Client on a Mac?

This video tutorial will show you how to install the Digital Fortress Client to start synchronizing the files in your online account with dedicated folders on your Mac and vice versa. We will show you how to install the Digital Fortress Client from a Mac.

Are you a Windows user? Learn how to install the client on a PC here.

How to install the Digital Fortress Client on a PC?

This video tutorial will show you how to install the Digital Fortress Client to start synchronizing the files in your online account with dedicated Digital Fortress folders on your PC and vice versa.

Are you a Mac user? Learn how to install the client on a Mac here.

Where can I download the Digital Fortress Client?

You can download the SecureSafe Client here. 

Password Safe Access

How does the Digital Fortress Client protect my passwords?

Your passwords are never stored on your local computer. When you access a password, the Digital Fortress Client will securely retrieve it from the server and put it on the clipboard of you computer for a short period of time. After the clipboard is cleared, the client also removes any traces of the plain-text password from memory. For this reason you only have access to your passwords from the Digital Fortress Client when your PC/Mac is online.

To ensure you full control, you can manually adjust how fast the the clipboard shall auto erase a password after you have copied it from the Digital Fortress Client. When you are not using the password safe it will automatically lock to prevent any abuse. You can determine how fast the auto lock function of the password safe should kick in under the “Settings” tab in the Digital Fortress Client. You can also manually lock the password safe at any point in time by clicking the “lock” button in the upper left corner of the “Password Safe” tab.

Should you not want the password module in your Digital Fortress Client, you also have the option of completely switching it off. Finally, all data is transported double encrypted over the internet (SSL plus additional AES-256 encryption of Digital Fortress Client used).

How can I change the auto lock time for my password safe in the Digital Fortress Client?

  • Log into the Digital Fortress Client.
  • Click the “Settings” tab.
  • Here you will be able to adjust the bar “Time-out until password safe locks” to suit your needs.

How can I manually lock my password safe in the Digital Fortress Client?

  • Log into the Digital Fortress Client.
  • Click the “Password Safe” tab.
  • Click the button “Lock” in the upper left corner of the password safe view in order to manually lock your password safe.
  • To access it again, you will need to enter your Digital Fortress password.

How can I adjust the auto erase time for the clipboard in the Digital Fortress Client?

  • Log into the Digital Fortress Client.
  • Click the “Settings” tab.
  • Here you will be able to adjust the bar “Time-out until clipboard auto erases” to suit your needs.

How can I add a new password in my password safe in the Digital Fortress Client?

  • Log into the Digital Fortress Client.
  • Click the “Password Safe” tab.
  • Now click the plus sign at the bottom of your password list.
  • A new window will open. Enter all the relevant details for your new password (account name, username etc).
  • Finish by hitting “save”.
  • We recommend that you do a search for your new password in the search bar to ensure that it was properly saved.

How can I delete a password from my password safe in the Digital Fortress Client?

  • Log into the Digital Fortress Client.
  • Click the “Password Safe” tab.
  • Choose the password you would like to delete from your password list so it is marked dark grey.
  • Now click the (-) at the bottom of your password list.
  • Finish by confirming that you would like to delete this password.

How can I deactivate/activate my password safe in the Digital Fortress Client?

  • Log in to the Digital Fortress Client.
  • Click the “Settings” tab.
  • To deactivate the password safe, deselect the box “Activated” (see image below).
  • You will be asked to log out of the Digital Fortress Client to complete the deactivation of the password safe.
  • Once you log in to the client again, the password safe will no longer be displayed.
  • To reactivate the password safe, simply go to the the “Settings” tab and tick the box “Disabled” in the password safe section. A logout will be necessary to complete the reactivation of the password safe in the Digital Fortress Client.

Touch ID

What is Touch ID and how does authentication work?

Touch ID is Apple’s new fingerprint authentication method that uses the identity sensor integrated into the Home button of all iPhone 5S, 6 and 6 Plus models.

The same fingerprints that are stored in iOS and are used to unlock your iPhone can now be used to authenticate your Digital Fortress login, as Apple has enabled third-party apps to use this fingerprint scanner starting in iOS 8.

How can I activate Touch ID on my iPhone?

In order for Touch ID to work, you have to activate the Touch ID function in iOS first (read more here) and then switch on the function in the app from the Settings tab. Please note that for this function to work,  you must have a device that possesses the Touch ID sensor. 

I don't see the Touch ID Login settings tab, what's wrong?

These settings for Touch ID are only visible when your device has a Touch ID sensor. If the setting is still not visible, it might be because the Touch ID function is deactivated in iOS. Learn how to activate Touch ID in iOS here. Still doesn’t seem to work? Find more information here.  

Can I configure more than one Digital Fortress account using Touch ID login on the same device?

This is unfortunately not possible due to restrictions set by Apple. If you want to activate the fingerprint login for another account, you have to deactivate it on the first account. 

Help! Touch ID doesn’t seem to work on my iPhone, what can I do?

To be able to use Touch ID with Digital Fortress the following criteria must be fulfilled:

  • Your device must have the Touch ID sensor (currently available on iPhone 5S, 6, and 6 Plus).
  • Your device must have iOS 8 installed.
  • Touch ID must be enabled and set up in the iOS settings, please find more information about this on the following Apple support page.
  • Touch ID must be enabled in the Settings tab of the Mobile App.

Can I disable Touch ID login?

Touch ID is disabled by default and needs to be enabled by users before use. It can later be disabled in the Settings tab in the Mobile App on your iPhone.

What if my phone gets stolen with Touch ID enabled?

We highly recommend you make use of Apple’s Remote-Wipe/Remote-Lock features should your iPhone be stolen. You can find more information here.

I cannot access my account via Touch ID. What can I do?

Let’s say your phone is broken and you have lost your login credentials. We have introduced the so-called recovery code, enabling you to recover your account yourself.

Please find more information about the Recovery Code here.

Which system requirements do Touch ID have?

You need to have iOS8 or higher installed on a device that supports Touch ID (iPhone 5S, iPhone 6, iPhone 6Plus) to be able to use Touch ID for your Digital Fortress login. 

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