Customize how iPGMail handles encryption, sending, and security.
Encryption Settings
Default Mode
Choose what happens when you compose a message:
| Sign Only | Authenticates you but doesn’t encrypt. Anyone can read the message. |
| Encrypt Only | Encrypts but doesn’t prove sender identity. |
| Sign & Encrypt | Both encryption and authentication. (Recommended) |
Attach PubKey
When enabled, your public key is automatically attached to every outgoing message. This makes it easy for recipients to import your key and reply securely.
Best for: Frequent correspondence with new contacts.
PGP in Email Body
| Off (default) | Encrypted content is sent as a .pgp file attachment. |
| On | Encrypted content is embedded as inline text in the email body. |
Tip: Use inline mode for compatibility with older email clients or webmail that doesn’t handle attachments well.
Email Configuration
Mail Server Config
| iOS Mail (default) | Tapping “Send” opens the Mail app with your encrypted message ready to send. |
| Custom SMTP | Send directly from iPGMail without switching apps. |
Cloud & Sync
Enable iCloud
Sync your keyring across all your Apple devices. Keys are stored in your private iCloud container and kept in sync automatically.
Best for: Users with multiple iOS devices who want the same keys everywhere.
Security
Enable App PIN Protection
Require a 4-digit PIN to open iPGMail.
This adds an extra layer of security if:
- Your device is unlocked and accessed by someone else
- You share your device with family members
- Your device is lost or stolen while unlocked
Note: The PIN protects app access only. Your private keys are still protected by their individual passphrases.
Configure Custom SMTP
Send encrypted emails directly from iPGMail without switching to the Mail app.
Setup Steps
- Go to Settings → Mail Server Config
- Select Custom SMTP
- Enter your server details:
- Server: Your SMTP host (e.g.,
smtp.gmail.com) - Port: Usually
587(TLS) or465(SSL) - Username: Your email address
- Password: Your email password or app-specific password
- Server: Your SMTP host (e.g.,
- Tap Save
- Send a test message to verify the configuration
Common SMTP Settings
| Provider | Server | Port | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gmail | smtp.gmail.com | 587 | Requires App Password |
| Outlook/Hotmail | smtp.office365.com | 587 | Use your Microsoft account |
| Yahoo | smtp.mail.yahoo.com | 587 | Requires App Password |
| iCloud | smtp.mail.me.com | 587 | Requires App-Specific Password |
Gmail App Password
Gmail requires an App Password instead of your regular password:
- Go to your Google Account Security settings
- Enable 2-Step Verification if not already active
- Go to App passwords
- Select Mail and iOS Device
- Click Generate
- Use the 16-character password in iPGMail (no spaces needed)
