Email Encryption
Email Encryption
The University of Mississippi offers an email encryption service to all users with an @olemiss.edu email address. This service encrypts email messages and attachments, allowing users to securely send information to internal and external recipients.
How to Encrypt an Email
To send an encrypted email, include *encrypt* anywhere in the subject line and send the email as usual.
Important: The trigger phrase is not case-sensitive, but both asterisks must be included, with no spaces between them.
When to Use Email Encryption
Email encryption provides an additional layer of security when sharing confidential information. Examples include:
- Sharing research ideas or results with collaborators.
- Submitting reviews for professional journals.
- Sending intellectual property to authorized recipients.
- Communicating confidential information with external organizations.
Important: Email should not be used to transmit information protected by FERPA, HIPAA, GLBA, or government classification requirements, even when encryption is enabled. Contact IT Security if you are unsure whether information may be shared by email.
How Email Encryption Works
Compose and Send an Encrypted Email
Create a new email and include *encrypt* in the subject line. Attach any necessary files and send the message.
Recipient Receives the Encrypted Email
The recipient receives an email notification containing a special encrypted HTML attachment.
Open the Attachment
The recipient opens the HTML attachment in a web browser and selects a verification method.
Verify Identity
Recipients can sign in using an eligible Microsoft account or request a one-time passcode sent to their email address.
Enter the Verification Code
Recipients using a one-time passcode enter the code in the encryption portal to verify their identity.
Read the Decrypted Message
After verification, the recipient can read the original email and access its attachments.
Reply Securely
The recipient can optionally send an encrypted reply through the portal, including attachments.
Additional Information
The email encryption service uses Microsoft Office 365 Message Encryption (OME), which protects email content and attachments.
Encrypted messages can be sent to both University of Mississippi email accounts and external email providers, including Gmail and other institutions.
Messages exchanged between @olemiss.edu accounts are already encrypted in transit and while stored on Office 365 servers. The email encryption service adds another layer of protection for highly confidential internal communications.
FAQs
No. The subject line is not encrypted. Avoid including sensitive information in the subject line.
No. Recipients generally only need a web browser and access to their email account to open encrypted messages.
Yes. Recipients can access encrypted messages using supported mobile browsers.
No. The service described does not support revoking encrypted messages after they have been sent.
The published service instructions specify a 25 MB limit, including the email body and attachments.
Yes. Recipients can send encrypted replies through the message encryption portal.