One example method includes inserting a signal layer in an image, the signal layer indicating that a sensitive layer in the image is a candidate for encryption, creating a single layer archive file that includes the sensitive layer, encrypting the single layer archive file to create an encrypted layer, constructing a new image that includes the encrypted layer, inserting, in the new image, a decryptor layer that is operable to decrypt the encrypted layer, and designating the decryptor layer as an entry point of the new image.