For years, WeTransfer reigned supreme as the go-to solution for quickly sharing large files. But a recent update to their terms of service – which initially granted the company the right to use shared files to improve its technologies, including AI models – raised serious privacy concerns, causing many users to seek safer alternatives. Even after WeTransfer backtracked, the incident highlighted the importance of carefully considering data privacy policies.

Why risk your sensitive data with a service that changes its rules without transparency? Fortunately, numerous free WeTransfer alternatives prioritize ethics and user privacy. Forget account creation hassles, excessive data collection, vague terms of service, and hidden AI lurking behind the servers.

This article presents a curated list of six simple, secure, and transparent file transfer services that have been thoroughly tested and validated, providing a safe haven for your precious data.

1. SwissTransfer: Privacy-Focused File Sharing from Switzerland

SwissTransfer is a service offered by Infomaniak, a reputable Swiss company known for its commitment to data confidentiality. This service allows you to send up to 50 GB of files per transfer without creating an account or sacrificing your data to AI algorithms.

SwissTransfer

Simply upload your files, choose a validity period (1, 7, 15, or 30 days), limit the number of downloads if desired, optionally add a password, and you’re done. The link is ready to be shared via email or any other preferred method.

Your files are hosted in Switzerland, encrypted during transfer, and automatically deleted after the chosen expiry date. No ads, no tracking, and no profiling. It works seamlessly on both desktop and mobile devices.

If you’re seeking a reliable, clean, free WeTransfer alternative that respects your files, SwissTransfer is an excellent starting point.

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2. Smash: The French Alternative for Effortless File Transfers

Smash is a French-based service that offers a user experience similar to WeTransfer, but without the concerning terms of service. Based in Lyon, Smash lets you share files up to 2 GB for free, with no limits on the number of transfers and no registration needed.

Smash

Sending files is easy – in just a few clicks, you can set an expiration date (up to 14 days), password-protect access, and even add a personalized message for recipients. A Pro version is available if you need to transfer larger files or extend their availability, but it’s not required for basic use.

Privacy is a priority. Smash encrypts your files during transfer, doesn’t store data longer than necessary, and respects your privacy. The interface is intuitive, and the service works flawlessly on both mobile and PC.

Smash is a great WeTransfer alternative for users looking for a simple, fast, and French-hosted file transfer tool.

3. Norishare: Minimalist, French, and Privacy-Focused

Norishare is a French file transfer solution designed for simplicity and essential functionality. It avoids unnecessary features and focuses on secure file sending. You can send files up to 2 GB per transfer without registration or providing your email address.

Norishare

This free service works in any modern browser and strictly adheres to user privacy. No file analysis, no profiling, and no human access to the content you send. Everything is automated, logged cleanly, and deleted after two weeks.

Norishare emphasizes digital sustainability. Files are hosted in France, duplicates are avoided to minimize server resources, and the infrastructure is optimized for minimal energy consumption.

Norishare is an excellent choice for users who want a lightweight, ethical, and privacy-focused service, although it currently lacks some optional features like password protection and custom expiry dates.

4. Drop Infini: Ethical, Encrypted Sharing, Hosted in Brittany

Drop Infini stands in stark contrast to commercial services that craft lengthy terms of service to gain rights over your files. This file-sharing service, offered by the Infini association (based in Brest, France), is built on the open-source software Lufi and is part of the CHATONS collective, known for its commitment to a more privacy-respecting digital world.

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Drop Infini

No account, no email, no data collection, and no intrusive cookies. Your files are encrypted client-side, meaning that no one (not even the site administrator) can see what you send. Its settings are remarkably comprehensive. You can choose the availability period (from 24 hours to 45 days), enable deletion after the first download, and even password-protect access if needed.

Each transfer generates a download link and a separate link for early deletion. Everything is hosted in France, in an association-run data center in Brest, under the direct control of the Infini team. No outsourced hosting or shady subcontractors.

Drop Infini is a discreet, free, ad-free tool perfectly aligned with open-source values. It is highly recommended for users concerned about their privacy or that of their recipients.

5. FileVert: Eco-Friendly File Transfer for a Sustainable World

FileVert is another French WeTransfer alternative with a unique focus: digital sustainability. This isn’t just a marketing claim; it’s a core commitment. Each transfer is carbon-offset, and the entire service is designed to minimize environmental impact.

FileVert

In terms of use, it’s standard: up to 2 GB per transfer, without registration, with manual download link generation. Creating an account is required for additional options like email sending or password protection.

Another nice feature is the ability to group multiple files into a temporary “Hub,” a mini-sharing space. As with all the services listed here, your data is not resold, analyzed, or used for AI training.

In short, FileVert offers a serious, ethical, and eco-friendly alternative. If you value sustainability, it provides a good balance between simplicity and responsibility.

6. Filemail: Generous 5GB Transfers, But with Limitations

Founded in Oslo, Norway, in 2008, Filemail is a simple and effective file transfer service. You can send up to 5 GB per transfer – either via link or directly by email – without registration. The service is easy to use, and apps are available if you prefer to avoid the browser.

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Filemail

The free version lets you choose between two availability periods: 1 day or 7 days. Longer periods require a paid plan. Password protection is also only available with an account.

Regarding privacy, end-to-end encryption is offered, but only if you have an account and manually enable it. Anonymous mode offers limited options, with no client-side encryption or advanced customization. Notification emails are functional, with some Filemail branding, but nothing intrusive.

Filemail is a practical solution for occasional, larger transfers, as long as you don’t expect strong privacy guarantees right out of the box.

Conclusion:

WeTransfer is no longer the only option for sending large files via email. Today, there are more generous, privacy-respecting alternatives better suited to specific needs. By exploring these alternatives, you can regain control over your data and choose a file transfer solution that aligns with your values. Whether you prioritize data privacy, sustainability, or specific features, there’s a perfect WeTransfer alternative waiting for you.

Comparison Table:

ServiceSend LimitAccount RequiredHostingClient-Side EncryptionUseful Free Options
SwissTransfer50 GBNoSwitzerlandNoCustom duration, password protection
SmashUnlimited (non-priority over 2GB)NoFranceNoCustom duration, password protection
Norishare2 GBNoFranceNoLink sending only
Drop Infini2 GBNoFranceYesDuration, password protection, delete after download
FileVert5 GBNoFranceYesCustom duration, password protection
Filemail5 GBNoNorwayYes (with account)Duration choice (1 or 7 days)
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