Encrypting Channels

You can encrypt channels or conversations to ensure that messages remain secure and inaccessible to others, including administrators.

To use encryption, you need to configure a passphrase. Passphrases are used for channel encryption and will not be stored on the server.

To set your passphrase:

  1. Click Account > Encryption > Set passphrase.
  2. You can download the private key in case you forget the passphrase in the future.
  3. Now you can create an encrypted channel or conversation.

To create encrypted channels:

  1. Click the add icon in the left column next to CHANNELS.
  2. Click Create.
  3. Select Private Channel and Encrypted.
  4. Enter the channel name and details. Click Create.

To create encrypted conversations:

  1. Click the add icon in the left column next to CONVERSATIONS.
  2. Select the members to include in the conversation.
  3. Select Encrypt conversation and click Chat.

To decrypt channels or conversations:

  1. You can decrypt using the following methods:
    • Click Account > Encryption > Decrypt channels.
    • Click on an encrypted channel or conversation.
  2. You'll be prompted to enter your passphrase or upload the private key.

To change your passphrase:

  1. Click Account > Encryption > Change passphrase.
  2. After resetting your passphrase, you'll need to rejoin all encrypted channels. Ask other members to help you regain access to these channels.

To renew your private key:

  1. Click Account > Encryption > Renew private key.
  2. Enter your passphrase.

Note:

  • Public channels can't be encrypted.
  • HTTPS is required for encrypted channels.
  • The maximum file upload size for an encrypted channel and conversation is 32 MB.
  • When creating an encrypted channel or conversation, you can only invite members who have configured a passphrase.
  • Decryption is required every time you refresh the browser.
  • Indexing services are deactivated in encrypted channels and conversations. This includes mentions, hashtags, Open Graphic for URLs, search, icon previews, slash commands, bots, and webhooks.
  • If encryption is deactivated by an administrator, encrypted channels and conversations become deactivated and closed, and new encrypted channels or conversations can't be created.
  • Decryption is only available if you have encrypted channels or conversations.