Hermes is an end-to-end encrypted data storage and sharing framework designed to enforce zero-trust access control and facilitate secure collaboration. By integrating client-side SDKs, Hermes enables cryptographically protected data processing and sharing without the need for excessive re-encryption, ensuring data remains secure throughout its lifecycle. Key Features and Functionality: - Secure Granular CRUD Operations: Hermes allows multiple users to collaborate on shared data structures with fine-grained access control and key management for each data block, applying distinct cryptographic protections to all create, read, update, and delete operations. - Zero-Trust Access Control Lists (ACLs: Unlike traditional ACLs that require trust in the enforcing engine, Hermes enforces access rights cryptographically, eliminating the need to trust the server or infrastructure components. - Convenient Storage Management: Data stored within Hermes remains encrypted and does not require re-encryption when modifying access rights, revoking keys, or performing planned key rotations. Its adaptable data model allows seamless integration with various architectures and storage schemes. Primary Value and Problem Solved: Hermes addresses the critical need for secure data collaboration in environments where trust in infrastructure is minimal or nonexistent. By providing end-to-end encryption and cryptographic access control, it ensures that sensitive data remains protected against unauthorized access, even in zero-trust scenarios. This is particularly valuable for industries such as finance, healthcare, and enterprise sectors, where secure data sharing and compliance with stringent data protection regulations are paramount.