How to Securely Delete Files on Mac (Beyond the Trash)

When you drag a file to the Trash and empty it, you might think it's gone forever. But in reality, deleted files often remain recoverable until their disk space is overwritten. If you're handling sensitive information, this isn't enough. In this guide, we'll cover three effective ways to securely delete files on macOS: using Finder, the Terminal, and Finderlock's built-in secure shredder.

Method 1: Emptying the Trash (not truly secure)

On macOS, deleting a file through Finder just marks the space as available—it doesn't overwrite the data. That means recovery tools can often bring it back.

• Drag the file into the Trash.
• Empty the Trash.

Method 2: Using Terminal (manual but effective)

Older macOS versions had a "Secure Empty Trash" option, but Apple removed it. Now, advanced users can use Terminal commands to overwrite deleted files.

For example, to overwrite free space on your disk:

diskutil secureErase freespace 0 /Volumes/Macintosh\ HD

This ensures previously deleted files can't be recovered, but it applies to all free space and can take a long time.

Method 3: Using Finderlock's Secure File Shredder (the easiest way)

Finderlock includes a Secure File Shredder (Pro plan) that permanently destroys sensitive files beyond recovery. Instead of overwriting your entire disk, it targets the files you choose.

• Right-click a file or folder.
• Select "Secure Delete with Finderlock."
• Confirm the action.

Finderlock then uses secure deletion routines to ensure the file is gone for good.

Why use Finderlock's shredder?

• Targeted per-file shredding
• Integrated into Finder
• Instant, simple, and irreversible
• No need to touch Terminal

Conclusion

If you only need basic file cleanup, the Trash works fine. But if you handle contracts, IDs, or confidential work, you need something stronger. Terminal commands can help, but they're clunky and broad. Finderlock's Secure File Shredder gives you professional-grade deletion built directly into Finder—fast, reliable, and impossible to undo.

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