We’re making it easier to send encrypted email
Published on August 24, 2017
In May, we announced that sending encrypted email was about to get easier. We’re changing the way you send encrypted messages, and the way they are read by people who do not use Hushmail, to create a simpler, more streamlined process. And the change is coming very soon.
The current way: security question
Currently, when you send an encrypted email to someone who doesn’t use Hushmail, you are prompted to enter a security question and answer. The recipient receives an email with a link that they follow to access the encrypted message on the secure Hushmail website. Once they click the link, the recipient must provide the correct answer to your question to see your email.
The new way: passphrases
The new method, which will launch this fall, will work differently.
The first time you email someone who doesn’t use Hushmail, you will have the option to add a security question, but you don’t have to in order to send an encrypted email. The recipient will receive a notification in their inbox saying they have a secure email from you, but after they click the link to see your message, they are prompted to create a passphrase, which they will be able to use to access any future encrypted emails you send them.
You still may want to include the security question the first time you send someone an encrypted email as an added layer of protection and to ensure you’re emailing the right address. But after they create a passphrase, you won’t have to come up with a security question and answer for future emails to that person—all you’ll have to do is click the "Encrypted" checkbox.
If you use a third-party email app, such as Mac Mail or Outlook, to send email to someone who doesn't use Hushmail, then it's sent as a regular email. To ensure you are adding an extra layer of security, use our webmail or Hushmail for iPhone app and click the "Encrypted" checkbox.
Stay tuned for a sneak preview in a few weeks.
Custom configuration? If you have configured your domain with a custom encryption method, there will be no changes and you will carry on with your same set up.