password protect a folder in mac os

I don't believe it is possible to password protect a folder in iCloud, but as a work-around you could always upload a password protected folder to iCloud. Once uploaded, the image (folder) will not be able to open in iCloud; it will need to be downloaded to open.

To create a password protected folder in macOS, you will be creating a password protected disk image. (This seems convoluted but works just like a folder).

Open Disk Utility.

Choose: File --> New Image... --> Blank Image...

Fill in the options. For a password, choose '128-Bit' or '256-Bit' in the Encryption drop-down menu. Hit 'Save' and you have an encrypted image (folder).

Open it and it will prompt for a password. Make sure not to save the password in keychain unless this is desired; this is disabled by default. You can now upload the encrypted image to iCloud where it will remain encrypted.

I don't believe it is possible to password protect a folder in iCloud, but as a work-around you could always upload a password protected folder to iCloud.

To create a password protected folder in macOS, you will be creating a password protected disk image instead. It sounds convoluted but essentially can be used just like a folder, drag-and-drop style.

Open Disk Utility.

Choose: File --> New Image... --> Blank Image...

Fill in the options and a location to save the image. For password protection, choose '128-Bit' or '256-Bit' in the Encryption drop-down menu. Hit 'Save' and you will have an encrypted image (folder).

Open it and it will prompt for the password. Make sure not to save the password in keychain unless this is desired; this is disabled by default. You can now upload the encrypted image to iCloud where it will remain encrypted.

Unfortunately it cannot be opened in iCloud. It will have to be downloaded first.

Hello spicerack229, 

Welcome to the Apple Support Communities. 

Files in your iCloud Drive can only be accessed with your Apple ID login credentials. There is not a way to set additional password protection past this.

You can send Product Feedback to Apple if you would like to see these features changed.

Please reply back if you have any additional questions.

Cheers!

If you lock them in Finder how do they look up in iCloud?