OpenPGP Keyserver

Website

sks-keyservers.net

Categories

#Security & Privacy #Email #File Encryption #Cloud Storage

Mailvelope

Website

mailvelope.com

Categories

#Email #Email Service Provider #Email Clients #Email Service

OpenPGP Keyserver features and specs

• Decentralized Architecture
  OpenPGP Keyservers use a decentralized network, meaning there is no single point of failure. This ensures redundancy and reliability in accessing public keys.
• Public Key Accessibility
  The keyserver network provides a centralized repository for users to upload and search for public keys, simplifying the process of key distribution.
• Historical Data
  Keyservers maintain records of older keys and their history, which can be useful for audits or verifying past communications.
• Community-Driven
  The OpenPGP keyserver network is maintained by volunteers and is open source, promoting transparency and community collaboration.

Possible disadvantages of OpenPGP Keyserver

• Lack of Key Removal
  Once a key is uploaded, it cannot be removed from the keyserver network, which can lead to issues with outdated or compromised keys remaining accessible.
• Spam and Key Overload
  Keyservers can be flooded with spam keys or outdated information, making it difficult for users to find valid or relevant keys.
• Vulnerability to Abuse
  The open nature of keyservers can make them targets for malicious actors who wish to upload fraudulent keys or link malicious identities to genuine ones.
• Privacy Concerns
  Since the keyserver network can be openly queried, there are potential privacy issues regarding who is uploading or searching for certain keys.

Mailvelope features and specs

• User-Friendly Interface
  Mailvelope offers an intuitive interface, making it easy for users to encrypt and decrypt their emails directly within their webmail client.
• Integration with Webmail
  Mailvelope seamlessly integrates with popular webmail services like Gmail, Yahoo Mail, and Outlook, enhancing email security without needing to change email providers.
• Open Source
  Being open-source, Mailvelope's code can be reviewed and audited by the community, ensuring transparency and enhancing trust in its security.
• Cross-Platform Compatibility
  As a browser extension, Mailvelope can be used on any operating system that supports the Chrome or Firefox web browsers, providing flexibility for users across different platforms.
• PGP Encryption
  Mailvelope uses PGP (Pretty Good Privacy) encryption, which is a well-respected method of securing email communications, ensuring messages remain private between sender and recipient.

Possible disadvantages of Mailvelope

• Requires Technical Knowledge
  Users need a basic understanding of public-key cryptography and PGP to effectively use Mailvelope, which may be challenging for non-technical users.
• Limited to Webmail
  Mailvelope is specifically designed for webmail services, so it may not be suitable for those who use desktop email clients.
• Manual Key Management
  Users are responsible for generating, managing, and sharing their encryption keys, which can be cumbersome and prone to user error.
• No Support for Attachments
  Mailvelope does not natively support encrypting email attachments, which may require additional steps for users who need to send files securely.
• Potentially Vulnerable to Browser Exploits
  As a browser extension, Mailvelope may be vulnerable to browser-based security threats, such as malicious extensions or exploits that could compromise its functionality.

Lesson 6: Submit your public key to the OpenPGP Keyserver

Mailvelope Demonstration

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