Compose encrypted emails and sign messages to prove authenticity.
Before You Start
You’ll need:
- The recipient’s public key imported into iPGMail (Find keys →)
- Your private key if you want to sign messages
- (Optional) A configured SMTP server for sending directly from iPGMail
Compose an Encrypted Message
- Open iPGMail → Compose tab
- Tap To: and select one or more recipients from your public keys
- Enter a Subject
- Write your message
- Optionally attach files using the 📎 button
- Tap Send
If you haven’t configured SMTP, iPGMail opens the Mail app with your encrypted message ready to send.
Note: Email subjects are not encrypted. Keep subject lines generic if privacy is important.
Sign, Encrypt, or Both
Use the mode selector to choose your security level:
| Mode | What it does |
|---|---|
| Sign Only | Proves the message is from you and hasn’t been altered. Anyone can read it. |
| Encrypt Only | Only the recipient can read it, but they can’t verify it’s from you. |
| Sign & Encrypt | Maximum security — private and authenticated. (Recommended) |
Set your default in Settings → Default Mode.
Send to Multiple Recipients
Tap additional contacts in the To: field to add them.
The message is encrypted separately for each recipient’s key — each person can only decrypt with their own private key. No recipient can read anyone else’s copy.
Attach Files
- Tap 📎 in the compose screen
- Select photos from your camera roll, or files from the Files app
- Attachments are encrypted along with your message
Tip: Large attachments may take longer to encrypt. For files over 10MB, consider using a secure file-sharing service instead.
Sending Options
iPGMail offers two ways to send your encrypted message:
| Method | How it works |
|---|---|
| iOS Mail (default) | Tapping Send opens the Mail app with your encrypted message pre-filled. You send from there. |
| Custom SMTP | Send directly from iPGMail without switching apps. Requires setup in Settings. |