Nowadays, sending documents online is the most convenient option. From personal documents, school assignments, proposals, and contracts, to job application files—everything can be shared digitally.
There are many ways to send documents. However, despite the convenience, document sharing also carries risks if not done properly. In this article, we’ll cover various ways to send documents online and how to keep them secure so they don’t fall into the wrong hands.
1. Via Email
The most common and practical way to send documents online is through email. Simply attach files in formats like PDF, Word, or Excel, and send them to the recipient’s email address.
For sensitive documents, consider adding password protection or encryption before sending.
2. Using Cloud Services (Google Drive, Dropbox, OneDrive)
Another easy way is to upload documents to cloud storage and share the link with the intended recipient. This method is ideal for large files or when you want flexible access control.
Make sure to set permissions to “view only” or “specific people only.” Avoid using “anyone with the link” for confidential files.
3. File Transfer Platforms (WeTransfer, Smash, SendGB)
For large files (hundreds of MB or more), platforms like WeTransfer are very useful. Simply upload your file and share the download link.
4. Messaging Apps (WhatsApp, Telegram, LINE, etc.)
Messaging apps now support document sharing directly from your phone. This is convenient for smaller files.
However, be cautious—avoid sending sensitive documents to group chats or through apps with uncertain security.
5. Client or Business Partner Portals
Some companies provide dedicated portals for uploading documents for clients, suppliers, or partners.
The advantage is better security, document tracking, and integration with approval systems or automated notifications.
6. FTP/SFTP for Business or IT Use
For companies, large and structured file transfers can be done using File Transfer Protocol (FTP) or its more secure version, SFTP.
These are typically used for transferring batches of documents between systems, server backups, and controlled access via credentials.
7. File Sharing Groups (Not Recommended)
Platforms like Facebook Messenger groups, public Telegram groups, or Google Groups are sometimes used to share files.
However, this is not recommended for important documents because:
If you’re not careful with app permissions on your phone, certain apps may track—or even access—your documents.
This risk is even higher if you download apps from unofficial sources outside the App Store or Google Play Store. Such apps may contain malware designed to hack your device.
Now you not only know various ways to send documents online, but also how to keep them secure.
Remember: Speed is important—but security is even more important.