FAQ

Security and Privacy

How are files encrypted in Wuala?

Every file you store in Wuala gets encrypted before it leaves your computer. This includes file metadata (e.g. name, description, tags). Every file is encrypted with a different key and the list of these keys is encrypted with your password and stored on our server. The password itself never leaves your computer so that not even we can access your data.

What happens when I share or publish a file?

When publishing a file, the encryption key of that file is revealed to the public. Similarly, when sharing files, the keys of these files is securely revealed to the friends and groups you share the file with.

What technologies do you use for encryption?

We employ AES-256 and RSA-2048. Encryption keys are managed using a data structure called Cryptree which is described in this paper. We have plans to open up at least those parts of our source code that deal with encryption so that it can be reviewed by any third party.

I forgot my password, what now?

You can request your password hint. If your password hint does not help you, we cannot do anything about it. Since your password never leaves your computer, we do not know your password. We cannot recover your password.

Why can’t you send me my password?

Wuala encrypts and decrypts all files locally. Your password never leaves your computer, hence, we do not know your password. This protects your privacy, but also means that apart from sending you password hint (specified when creating your account or check your account settings) we cannot help you recovering it.

What is the password hint?

The password hint is a sentence or question that should hint you to your password. Let’s say your password is “venice”. In this case your password hint might be: “where was my best vacation?” You have specified your password hint when creating your account. Check your account settings to change or modify your password hint.

Can I change my username?

No, you cannot change your user name.

I have witnessed abuse. Who should I contact?

Please contact abuse@wuala.com and describe what exactly you witnessed. Thank you!

Virus sharing through Wuala. Is this possible?

If you think a file is malware or spyware, please report it to abuse@wuala.com. Thank you!

I stumbled upon inappropriate material. Where do I report it?

Click on the file. Go to the action menu and click on "Flag as Inappropriate". You may also send an email to abuse@wuala.com. Please give us a many details as possible, e.g. link to the file, name of the file, owner of the file, etc. Thank you for reporting.

What are secret links?

A secret link is a link to a file or folder in Wuala that carries a secret key, e.g.: https://www.wuala.com/Luzius/Test/Link/IMG_1270.JPG?key=wuala. Share your desired folders with a secret link and send this link to anyone. The receiver will be able to access that folder. Often, this is more convenient than sharing folders with selected friends within Wuala, as you get a web link that can be opened in any browser. However, it is a little less secure as the link can be passed on. Furthermore, when you open a secret link in a web browser, it is sent to our server so we can decrypt the linked content for you.