Deleting and Secure Deleting Files

Path Finder gives you standard delete behavior (Trash) plus an optional Secure Delete for permanently wiping sensitive files.

Move files to Trash

To delete files in the usual way:

• Select one or more items.

• Press Command + Delete, or

• Right-click and choose Move to Trash.

The items are moved to the macOS Trash and can be recovered until the Trash is emptied.

Use the Trash module

You can work with deleted items directly from Path Finder using the Trash module.

To use the Trash module:

1. Enable it via Window > Modules > Trash (if not already visible).

2. Drag files into the Trash module to delete them.

3. Open the Trash module to see what’s currently in Trash.

4. Empty Trash from within the module when you’re ready to permanently delete.

This is handy when you want Trash visible as part of your workspace.

Secure Delete (permanent wipe)

Secure Delete overwrites file data before deleting it, making recovery much more difficult.

To securely delete files:

1. Select the file(s) you want to remove.

2. In the menu bar, open the Commands menu (or equivalent, depending on your version).

3. Choose Secure Delete.

4. Confirm the action.

Warning: Secure Delete is permanent.
Once you securely delete files, they cannot be recovered via normal means. Use it only for files you are sure you no longer need.

Use regular Trash for everyday cleanup, and reserve Secure Delete for sensitive data that must not be easily recoverable.