Abstract: A method of distributing a plurality of data files to a plurality of recipients including the steps of: placing encrypted copies of the data files to be distributed on a plurality of identical media and providing the recipients with media reading devices having data file decryption capability; logically arranging the data files into data file groups; in response to a recipient's request for access to selected file groups providing the recipient with a group access map indicative of the file groups to which access is requested; in further response to a recipient's request for access to selected file groups providing the recipient with a password to be used for access verification; completing an access verification operation using the group access map and the password and data indicative of the media being read and data indicative of the reading device being used; providing access to the data files in the file groups to which access is requested by use of the group access map; and decrypting the accessed data f