Sipher
Sipher

Key Backup & Recovery

Safely backup your encryption keys to prevent permanent data loss

Why Backup Your Keys?
Losing your encryption keys means losing access to your encrypted emails permanently

Without a backup of your private encryption key, you will permanently lose access to:

  • All encrypted emails in your account
  • Messages sent to you using your public key
  • Your encrypted message history

Warning: There is no way to recover encrypted data without your private key. Always maintain secure backups.

How to Backup

Step 1: Go to Settings → Encryption → Key Management

Step 2: Click "Export Private Key"

• You'll be prompted for your account password

• The key will be encrypted with your password

Step 3: Save the key file securely

• Store on an encrypted USB drive

• Use a password manager with file attachments

• Keep in a secure physical location (safe, bank deposit box)

• Never store in cloud storage without additional encryption

Best Practices

Multiple Backups

Keep backups in at least 2-3 different secure locations to protect against loss or damage.

Regular Updates

If you rotate or generate new keys, update your backups immediately.

Encryption

Even when backing up, encrypt the key file with a strong password separate from your account password.

Test Restores

Periodically test that you can restore your key from backup to ensure it's valid.

Recovery Process

If you lose your key:

  1. Locate your backup key file
  2. Go to Settings → Encryption → Import Keys
  3. Upload your backup key file
  4. Enter the encryption password (if the backup was encrypted)
  5. Verify the key fingerprint matches your original key

Tip: Keep a record of your key fingerprint separately from the key file. This helps verify you're restoring the correct key.