8 Safe Ways to Send Large Video Files
Have you ever spent several minutes organizing email attachments and clicked “send” only to find the file is too large? Well, you’re not alone. Most email services impose limits on file sizes. Finding a workaround to send large files is a frustrating and time-consuming process.
But if you share large folders with several documents or large video files via unsafe methods, you risk spreading viruses and other malware. It could expose you, your employer, or your family to a future cyberattack.
Some popular ways of sharing files could be dangerous. In this article, we’ll explore eight common methods for sending large video files. We’ll also explain why some methods are dangerous and what solution you can choose. Cover photo by Samsung Memory.
What Are the Risks Involved in Sharing Video Files?
When you transfer a large video file via an unsecured method, such as an unencrypted FTP or peer-to-peer transfer, you expose your or the recipient’s device to malware infections. That’s because attackers could embed malicious software in the file content or inject malicious software into the file during the transfer process. If you don’t take proper precautions, you could unknowingly spread ransomware, adware, keyloggers, or spyware infections.
If you’re the sender, it’s important to pick secure transfer methods to get your file to its destination in an unaltered state. If you’re at the receiving end, it’s even more important to scan your files for viruses as you download them, for example with a premium virtual private network (VPN).
Best File Sharing Options for Video Files
As a general rule, before you send or upload anything, always use a VPN to encrypt your connection to the internet. It creates a secure tunnel between your device and the destination and prevents tampering during transfer.
After establishing a secure VPN connection, pick a safe file transfer service. If you don’t know which to choose, here are some possible options:
1. Unencrypted Specialized File Transfer Services
Specialized file transfer services like WeTransfer or SendSpace let you upload video files and generate a download link to share with your friends. You may need to pay for the premium solution to transfer files that are larger than 2G. Remember that if you share copyrighted content, the transfer service may block or delete your files and suspend your accounts.
2. Encrypted Specialized File Transfer Services
Examples of encrypted file transfer services are SendSafely or TransferXL. Encrypted file transfer services are particularly important when sending sensitive or confidential videos that you don’t want falling into the wrong hands. Since you’ll need a subscription to send large files, you could reduce the file size with file compression software such as 7-Zip to compress files and folders into smaller packages before you upload a video to the platform.
3. Create a VPN Server for Your Friends
Use a virtual private network (VPN) to create a secure server to which only you and your friends or co-workers have access. Gamers use these private servers extensively for LAN parties, but it’s also a secure file-sharing solution. Use software like Meshnet to create a private server, upload the video files, and give your friends exclusive access to the files and data on the server.
4. Sharing via Cloud Storage
Cloud storage services such as Google Drive or Dropbox allow you to upload videos and share links with others. They usually have security features like password protection and permissions settings, which help to ensure that only authorized people can access your files.
However, they may restrict your total storage space unless you pay for the premium storage solution. Also, always ensure that you encrypt the files during upload and download to ensure you have an unaltered copy.
5. Encrypted Messaging Apps
If your video files are not too large, you can use an encrypted messaging app like Signal or Telegram. They provide end-to-end encryption, which means that only the sender and the recipient can see your conversations. This ensures that your videos are protected from tampering.
6. Copying or Burning to DVD, USB, or SSD
Using flash disks to distribute files is a very risky option. It’s a tried-and-tested way to spread viruses and ransomware between different devices. But if you don’t have access to the internet, burning the videos onto a DVD, USB, or SSD may be a solution. Copy your videos onto the device and physically hand it over to the recipient. No internet connection is required!
Solid State Drives are one of the best methods for extremely large file sizes if you need a fast transfer time. These can support multiple terabytes, where DVDs and USBs may only support hundreds of gigabytes.
7. Encrypted P2P Transfers
If you want to share a file quickly with a group of people, consider using a peer-to-peer (P2P) file-sharing protocol. It’s designed to distribute files across multiple computers simultaneously, which means much faster downloads.
However, always use a VPN to encrypt your connection when downloading files. Don’t download files from unknown sources, even if you use encryption, as the files could be poisoned. Exercise caution when using P2P networks, as they’re often a breeding ground for malware.
Also, keep in mind that some countries vigorously pursue copyright infringement through peer-to-peer sharing. Don’t share copyrighted material.
8. Sharing Via Social Media Platforms
Surprisingly, Facebook, with its advanced compression technology, is also a good way to share large video files. Or you can upload your file to websites like YouTube or Vimeo and share them publicly or privately with specific individuals. This method is not suitable for sensitive or confidential content, but it’s a familiar way to share videos with a wide audience.
Related video:
Keep Sharing The Fun—Securely!
Sharing large video files can be risky if you don’t take some steps to ensure the security and reliability of the process. Some methods are safe and trustworthy. But if you share files in an unencrypted environment, you could expose yourself to risks. Remember to take proper precautions while transferring files.
