Picocrypt-NG
Picocrypt-NG encrypts files, with its project describing the tool as small and simple.
About Picocrypt-NG
Picocrypt-NG is an open-source tool for encrypting files using the XChaCha20 cipher and Argon2id key derivation. It is a community-developed continuation of the archived Picocrypt project, which the original Picocrypt author does not endorse, develop, or support.
It provides builds for Windows, macOS, Linux, and Android, including command-line versions. Some systems have limits: the macOS app is built for Apple Silicon and macOS 15.0+, and the Windows 7/8 release is command-line only.
Key features
- Encrypts files using XChaCha20 cipher and Argon2id key derivation
- Offers Windows installer, portable executable, and CLI-only build
- Provides macOS app built for Apple Silicon targeting macOS 15.0+
- Provides Linux binaries for amd64 and arm64, plus .deb and Flatpak
- Provides Android app for Android 7.0 or newer on 64-bit devices
- Includes command-line version for terminal use
Best for: People who need an open-source file encryption tool with desktop and Android builds.
Good for
- Source code is available through its GitHub repository
- Provides builds for Windows, macOS, Linux, and Android including CLI versions
- Windows releases from version 2.19 are Authenticode-signed through SignPath Foundation
Watch out for
- macOS app targets Apple Silicon and macOS 15.0+, not Intel or older releases
- macOS release is ad-hoc signed but not notarized, triggering a Gatekeeper warning
- Windows 7/8 legacy release is command-line only
Picocrypt-NG at a glance
- Category
- Software & Utilities › File Utilities
- Type
- Open-source project
- Pricing
- Not confirmed. Check the site
- Platforms
- Android
- Open source
- Yes · Source code
- Language
- English
- Last checked
- Oct 6, 2026 · Online when checked
- Listed
- Oct 5, 2026
Guides for File Utilities
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Picocrypt-NG FAQ
Where should Picocrypt-NG be downloaded from?
Only from its GitHub repository, to get the authentic version.
What are the Android requirements?
Android 7.0 or newer on a 64-bit ARM (arm64-v8a) or x86-64 device.
How to open the macOS app if Gatekeeper warns?
Use Right-click then Open, use Open Anyway in Privacy & Security, or run xattr -cr on the app path.
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