N-013Messaging
Encrypted Files
Files are encrypted on the sender's device before upload — the key is shared only through the protected conversation.
Updated August 2026 · 3 minute read
Encrypted file sharing works within direct messages and groups, described here at the protocol level. For the product surface, see Null Files.
File flow
- The file is encrypted on the sender's device.
- The encrypted object is uploaded.
- The encryption key is shared through the protected conversation.
- The recipient downloads the ciphertext.
- The recipient decrypts the file locally.
File controls
- expiration;
- download limit;
- recipient scope;
- integrity hash;
- malware scanning with clearly disclosed privacy trade-offs;
- maximum size;
- revoke future access where technically possible.
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