Many people keep sensitive information on their computers: passwords, financial data, etc.. This data should not be stored electronically without some level of security, in case the computer is breached, lost or stolen. Fortunately there are several Mac applications which allow you to easily password protect important files.

Apple Pages:  Choose File —> Set Password… In the Password window, type in and verify a password, then save the file.

Apple Numbers:  Choose File —> Set Password… In the Password window, type in and verify a password, then save the file.

Microsoft Word:  Choose Save As…, then click on the Options… button. In the Save window which appears, click on Show All, then Security. Type in a password to Open the document (you don’t need to enter a Modify password), then click OK. You will be asked to confirm the password, then save the file.

Microsoft Excel:  Choose Save As…, then click on the Options… button. Type in a password to Open the document (you don’t need to enter a Modify password), then click OK. You will be asked to confirm the password, then save the file.

Also, choose a non-obvious name for your repository of important data – not a file named My Passwords sitting on the desktop! A bit of obfuscation and a required password upon opening offers a reasonable level of protection.