Popular Cloud Storage Sees Your Data–Zero-Knowledge Cloud Don’t!

Have you ever wondered about the difference between traditional and zero-knowledge privacy cloud storage? If you want your files to be entirely private.

Traditional cloud storage providers cache and store your data in their database, which anyone with permission can access. On the other hand, zero-knowledge encryption cloud storage encrypts your data before it is uploaded. 

This ensures that only you can access your data and keep it safe and secure from unauthorized access. Cloud storage providers like Google Drive are notorious for data privacy issues. They scan your files in the name of virus scanning, breaching your privacy. Even if you don’t have anything to hide, nobody likes to be spied on, right?

That’s why zero-knowledge privacy drives are here to solve this privacy issue. Keep reading this blog to learn more about Zero-knowledge cloud storage.

What is Zero-knowledge Encryption Technology?

Zero-knowledge encryption is a method of securing data that ensures only the user can access the data using your decryption key, which is locally stored on your device. 

It protects your data by keeping it encrypted before it leaves your device, during transit, and stored on a server. Zero-knowledge encryption means that even the service provider can’t access or decrypt the data because they don’t have the encryption key.

It also means that if you lose your credentials, including your secret passphrase, you won’t be able to recover your account, and all its data will also be lost.

To understand this better, you must understand the concept of Zero-knowledge proof. So, let’s get more technical and see what happens behind the encryption process.

What is Zero Knowledge Proof (ZKP)?

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Imagine a scenario where someone wants to prove they know a secret password to access a system without revealing the password itself. 

A zero-knowledge proof (ZKP) allows them to demonstrate that they possess the correct information without ever disclosing the secret data to the verifier.

A more technical description would be,

Zero-knowledge proofs (ZKPs) are cryptographic methods that allow one party, known as the “prover,” to demonstrate to another party, called the “verifier,” that a statement is true without disclosing any information about that statement. ZKPs help verify facts safely and privately without revealing the actual data.

How Does Zero-Knowledge Encryption Work in Cloud Storage?

In true zero-knowledge encryption, the cloud service cannot access your files with the encryption key locally generated by your device. Here’s how zero-knowledge encryption protects your data on the backend:

1. The key used to encrypt your data is generated on your local device from your passphrase or password through a Key Derivation Function (KDF) process, which can include methods like PBKDF2, Argon2, etc. 

This key generation occurs entirely on your device, ensuring the cloud provider can never access your key or passphrase. Once the key is generated, it encrypts your data locally before it is uploaded to the cloud.

2. Once the data is encrypted locally, the encrypted version is uploaded to the cloud storage. Since the data is already encrypted, the provider can only access the ciphertext and cannot decrypt it, as they do not have your encryption key.
3. When you log in or access your files, the encryption key is derived locally from your passphrase. The server never receives your passphrase or key.

Why Zero-knowledge Cloud Matters in 2024?

According to Thales 2024 Cloud Security Study, nearly half (44%) of organizations have experienced a cloud data breach in the past 12 months. Some of them could mitigate the attack using a secure VPN service provider.

In July 2024, Google’s Gemini AI platform was accused of scanning PDF files stored on Google Drive without user consent. 

The issue arose when Kevin Bankson, a Senior Advisor on AI Governance, discovered that Gemini had accessed his confidential tax documents to generate summaries. 

Despite attempts to disable this feature, Bankson found it challenging to locate the appropriate settings, raising concerns about Google’s transparency and user control over data privacy. This incident has sparked discussions about AI’s implications for user privacy and the need for clearer consent mechanisms in cloud services.

These issues prove that zero-knowledge privacy will be essential in securing data and user privacy in 2024. This type of storage is becoming more popular among users.

So, to maintain the privacy of your files and prevent unauthorized access, cloud storage backed by zero-knowledge privacy is essential. Here are some key features:

• Strong encryption protocols (AES-256 GCM, RSA, etc.)
• End-to-end client-side encryption and multifactor authentication.
• Cross-platform support (Windows, macOS, iOS, Android).
• Ease of use: User-friendly apps and interfaces.
• Backup, syncing, and versioning features.

Zero-knowledge cloud storage gives you more control over your files. You’re the owner of the data, and you make the rules! This is particularly useful for users who need to securely store and share sensitive data with different parties.

Its architecture significantly mitigates the risks associated with data breaches. Since providers cannot access decryption keys, unauthorized parties cannot access your data even if a breach occurs. This offers ultimate protection and data security.

Pro tip: Combine Zero-knowledge cloud with the best VPN service for full privacy. The encryption will protect the files, and the VPN will keep your connection safe while you upload them.

Now, let’s explore the top 5 zero-knowledge encryption cloud storage services.

Top 5 Zero-knowledge Encryption Cloud Storage in 2024

Here are the top five fully privacy-friendly zero-knowledge cloud storage of 2024.

1. Mega Cloud

Image Source: Mytour

Mega cloud is overall the best zero-knowledge encryption cloud storage.

Mega stands out primarily in cloud storage because of its transparency and commitment to user privacy. It offers a generous free plan, an affordable pricing range, a responsive web platform and mobile application, and collaboration features.

Mega employs zero-knowledge encryption, meaning only users can access their data, not just Mega. This is a significant advantage for privacy-conscious users.

Files are encrypted on the client side before being uploaded, using AES-128 and TLS protocols to protect data in transit and at rest. Moreover, users can enable 2FA for an additional layer of security, helping to prevent unauthorized access to accounts.

MEGA supports various platforms, including Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS, ensuring users can access their files from any device.

Here are the advantages and disadvantages of Mega Cloud at a glance.

Pros	Cons
1. End-to-end encryption (client-side). 2. Generous 20 GB free cloud storage. 3. Affordable price starting at €2.50/TB. 4. Chat/call features for Collaboration. 5. Accepts cryptocurrency payment. 6. Supports all major devices. (Windows, Android, iOS, etc.) 7. Supports file versioning. 8. Automatic camera upload. 9. Integrated media player. 10. Secure file sharing.	1. The free version comes with a bandwidth limit. 2. Fewer collaboration features compared to competitors. 3. Occasional slow upload. (due to encryption)

2. pCloud

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pCloud is a cloud storage service emphasizing security, flexibility, and user-friendly functionality. It provides a reliable platform for storing, sharing, and managing files across multiple devices, making it ideal for personal and business use.

pCloud also supports client-side encryption, ensuring that files are encrypted before they leave the user’s device. This means only the user can access the encryption keys, enhancing privacy. However, this feature is only available in the paid version.

With the support of zero-knowledge encryption, not even pCloud can access your files, ensuring maximum security and privacy of your sensitive data.

It offers both a paid and a generous free plan, including lifetime business plans offering up to 10 terabytes of storage. pCloud allows you to share storage across your family. 

Pros	Cons
1. Client-side zero-knowledge encryption 2. Flexible pricing plans–lifetime packages are available. 3. Compatible with all major devices. (Windows, Android, iOS, Linux, etc.) 4. File versioning and rewind feature. 5. Secure file sharing is supported. 6. No file size restrictions. 7. Facebook and Instagram integration are available. 8. Sync between devices securely.	1. Only email-based customer support. Not as responsive as the other competitors. 2. Zero-knowledge/client-side encryption is not free. 3. Less free storage, only 10 Gb.

3. Sync

Image Source: Tom’s Guide

Sync is another cloud service that offers zero-knowledge encryption to protect your files. It supports real-time synchronization, which allows users to synchronize files and data across multiple devices securely to access them anytime and anywhere. 

It also comes with a selective syncing feature that allows users to choose specific folders or files to sync, allowing for better file management. This is particularly useful for users with limited device storage who want more customization.

Additionally, it supports real-time backup of your files and automatic updates. That means you don’t need to transfer files between devices; changes are automatically synchronized, reducing the risk of file version conflicts.

Pros	Cons
1. Strong encryption and zero-knowledge privacy for files. 2. Automatic backup support. 3. Easy file sharing and collaboration. 4. File version history and version control support. 5. It supports all major platforms (Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, etc.). 6. Storage spaces are scalable.	1. Very slow download/upload speed. 2. Limited offline file access. 3. App version is not user-friendly compared to the competitors.

4. Filen

Image Source: Apple

Filen is another secure cloud storage provider emphasizing end-to-end encryption and zero-knowledge privacy. It employs AES-GCM-256-bit encryption, ensuring the files are encrypted on the user’s device before uploading to the cloud.

Users can share files securely via public or private links, with options to set passwords and permissions. It also allows real-time synchronization across various devices, including desktops and mobile devices.

Moreover, it supports a smart folder structure with an intuitive folder organization system, making it easy to manage files and folders. It offers a free and paid plan of up to 10 TB, unlimited bandwidth, and no file transfer speed limit.

Pros	Cons
1. Zero-knowledge encryption 2. German-based, under EU laws. 3. Impressive privacy features (Hide thumbnail & file names), Pass lock, biometric lock. 4. Customizable file sync. 5. Affordable pricing plans. 6. Intuitive UI/UX. 7. No speed limit.	1. Lacks robust collaboration features compared to other storage. 2. No WebDav support. 3. Occasional slow uploads on mobile devices. 4. Compatibility issues with iOS files.

5. Proton Drive

Image Source: PCMag

Proton is a Swiss company well-known for its dedication to protecting data and ensuring privacy. Proton Drive provides zero-knowledge encryption, guaranteeing only users can view their files. It’s an attractive option for anyone who values data security. 

Proton Drive is fully open-source, so anyone can verify whether it serves end-to-end encryption as it promises. Additionally, all Proton products are regularly audited, and the audit reports are available publicly.  Moreover, Proton Drive offers secure file-sharing and collaboration features for individuals and businesses.

Pros	Cons
1. Swiss-based zero-knowledge encryption. 2. Regularly audited by experts. 3. Fully open-source project. 4. Secure file sharing and privacy support (Setting passwords). 5. File-versioning support. 6. Real-time collaboration.	1. Free version only offers 1 GB of storage. 2. Customer support is limited to email and knowledge.

Comparison Table of Zero-knowledge Cloud Storage

Here’s a side-by-side comparison of the top zero-knowledge cloud providers. 

Features	Mega	pCloud	Sync	Filen	Proton Drive
Zero-knowledge Encryption	Yes, but only for files in your vault	Optional with a paid plan	Yes	Yes	Yes
Storage Options	20 GB free, up to 16 TB paid	10 GB free, up to 2 TB paid	5 GB free, up to 6 TB paid	10 GB free, up to 5 TB paid	1 GB free, up to 500 GB paid
End-to-End Encryption	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Platform Availability	Web, Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android	Web, Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android	Web, Windows, macOS, iOS, Android	Web, Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android	Web, Windows, macOS, iOS, Android
File Versioning	30 days	15 days (up to 365 days with paid)	Unlimited version history (on paid plans)	10 versions	10 versions
Collaboration Features	File sharing, folder sharing	File sharing, folder sharing	File and folder sharing	File and folder sharing	Limited collaboration (file sharing only)
Encryption Type	AES-128, RSA 2048-bit	AES-256	AES-256	AES-256	AES-256
GDPR Compliance	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Data Centers Location	Worldwide	Europe (Switzerland)	Canada	Europe	Switzerland
Open-Source	No	No	No	No	Partially
Additional Features	Encrypted chat, file transfer	Crypto folder (secure area), lifetime plans	Advanced admin controls, unlimited devices	Encrypted notes, galleries	Privacy-focused email and VPN integration

This comparison will help you choose the cloud provider of your choice.

FAQs

Can Zero-knowledge Encryption Prevent Data Breaches?

Zero-knowledge encryption encrypts files locally on your device and uploads the encrypted version to the cloud. That means even if there’s a data breach, attackers cannot decrypt any of your files because they don’t have the decryption key.

Are There Any Downsides to Using Zero-Knowledge Encryption?

The only disadvantage of using zero-knowledge encryption is that if you lose access to your account credentials, you cannot recover the data.

How Do I Migrate My Data to a Zero-Knowledge Cloud Provider?

Migrating to a zero-knowledge cloud provider is easy. Simply choose the cloud you prefer, download the data, and re-upload the data to your desired cloud storage.

Closing Thoughts

In today’s digital landscape, safeguarding your privacy is crucial. While traditional cloud storage providers offer convenience, they often raise significant privacy concerns. 

Zero-knowledge encryption cloud storage gives you full control over your data. No one can access it, not even the cloud service provider. As we enter 2024, switch to zero-knowledge cloud storage and take control of your digital privacy today!