If you’re looking to hide a file or folder from Spotlight on your Mac, you may have already tried adding it to the Spotlight privacy list. However, this method has a flaw – the file or folder still appears in the Spotlight control panel. A more effective way to hide files is to use the User’s Library Directory – this makes the file invisible to most people, and prevents Spotlight from crawling it even though it’s not directly excluded from indexing.
- To access the Library folder on Mac OS, use the command + switch + G to ~ / Library /.
- Drag and drop the file or folder you want to hide into the Users’ Library Directory.
- You can add another layer of protection by creating a random-sounding directory name like “Webkit Data” and saving the file there.
- To confirm that a file or folder is hidden from Spotlight, press Command + Space and type the file name – it should no longer appear in the search results.
Remember that if you keep the Library folder visible, the hidden files can still be found by others with access to your Mac. If you wish to add an extra layer of security, you can password-protect an encrypted disk image and store all private documents and data there.
Benefits of Hiding Files on Mac OS with the Library Folder
- The guide is free to read and use.
- You can easily follow the steps in a few minutes.
- The method is simple and does not require any third-party applications.
FAQs
What is this guide about?
This guide explains how to hide files and folders from Spotlight search on Mac OS using the Library Folder.
Is this guide free to use?
Yes, this guide is free to read and use.
Does this method work on iOS devices?
No, this method only works on devices running Mac OS.
Can I use this method on any operating system?
This method only works on devices running Mac OS.
Final Note
If you have any queries or suggestions regarding this guide, feel free to reach out to us using the contact page. Please note this guide is for educational purposes only. If you notice any misinformation or wish to add another method, please contact us.
