What encryption does Secure Notes use?

AES-256-GCM, backed by your device's hardware security module via the Android Keystore or iOS Secure Enclave. Your decryption key never leaves the chip.

What happens if I forget my PIN?

There is no recovery option by design — the PIN is the only key to your vault. Choose something memorable but not obvious, and consider writing it somewhere safe offline.

Are my notes backed up to the cloud?

No. Notes are stored only on your device and are explicitly excluded from cloud backups. If you change devices you will need to re-enter them manually.

Can anyone else see my notes if they have my phone?

Not without your PIN or registered biometrics. The vault locks automatically and the note contents are always stored encrypted, never as plain text.

Secure Notes

WEB

Keep sensitive notes locked behind a PIN with on-device encryption.

What it does

Secure Notes gives you a private vault inside Carbide where you can store passwords, PINs, account details, personal thoughts, or any sensitive text you do not want visible to anyone who picks up your phone. Every note is encrypted on your device using AES-256 — the same standard used by banks — before it is saved, and the vault stays locked behind your PIN or biometrics until you open it. There is no cloud sync, no account to create, and nothing ever leaves your device. Carbide's Secure Notes is completely free, works fully offline, and is built for people who want a quick, private place to jot things down without trusting a third-party server with their most sensitive information.

How to use the Secure Notes

Open Carbide and tap Secure Notes from the Security category.
Set a PIN the first time you open the vault — you will need this to unlock it each time.
Tap the + button to create a new note, give it a title, and type your sensitive content.
Tap Save; the note is encrypted and stored on your device immediately.
To read or edit a note later, open the vault with your PIN or biometrics and tap the note.

Frequently asked questions

What encryption does Secure Notes use?: AES-256-GCM, backed by your device's hardware security module via the Android Keystore or iOS Secure Enclave. Your decryption key never leaves the chip.
What happens if I forget my PIN?: There is no recovery option by design — the PIN is the only key to your vault. Choose something memorable but not obvious, and consider writing it somewhere safe offline.
Are my notes backed up to the cloud?: No. Notes are stored only on your device and are explicitly excluded from cloud backups. If you change devices you will need to re-enter them manually.
Can anyone else see my notes if they have my phone?: Not without your PIN or registered biometrics. The vault locks automatically and the note contents are always stored encrypted, never as plain text.

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