End-to-End Encrypted (E2EE) chats provide the highest level of privacy for your conversations. Messages are encrypted so that only participants can read them.
What is E2EE?
End-to-End Encryption means:
- Messages are encrypted on your device before being sent
- Only participants have the keys to decrypt messages
- CUEBES cannot read the content of your messages
- Messages remain private even if servers are compromised
How It Works
Encryption Keys
When you join an E2EE chat:
- Your device generates encryption keys
- Public keys are shared with other participants
- Private keys stay on your device
- Messages are encrypted using these keys
Key Rotation
For security, keys are rotated when:
- A member is removed from the chat
- Periodically for enhanced security
Tip: Key rotation ensures that removed members cannot decrypt new messages, even if they had access before.
Creating an E2EE Chat
Cube owners and admins can create E2EE chats:
- Go to your Cube's chat section
- Click "Create New Chat"
- Enable "End-to-End Encryption"
- Add members
- Create the chat
Important: E2EE cannot be enabled on existing chats. You must create a new chat with encryption enabled from the start.
Using E2EE Chats
E2EE chats work like regular chats:
- Send text messages
- Share files (also encrypted)
- React to messages
- Reply to specific messages
The main difference is the security layer - your messages are protected throughout.
Identifying E2EE Chats
E2EE chats are marked with:
- A lock icon next to the chat name
- An "Encrypted" badge
Limitations
Due to the nature of E2EE:
- No server-side search - Messages can't be searched on the server
- Device-bound keys - If you lose access to your device, you may lose access to message history
- No message recovery - CUEBES cannot recover messages if you lose your keys
Security Best Practices
Protect Your Device
- Use a strong device password or biometrics
- Keep your device software updated
- Don't share your device with untrusted people
Verify Members
- Only add trusted members to E2EE chats
- Remove members promptly when they should no longer have access
Be Aware of Screenshots
E2EE protects messages in transit and at rest, but cannot prevent:
- Screenshots taken by participants
- Photos of screens
- Copy-pasting of messages
When to Use E2EE
| Use E2EE For | Regular Chat For |
|---|---|
| Sensitive business discussions | General announcements |
| Personal or confidential topics | Casual conversation |
| Financial information | Public coordination |
| Private team coordination | Content that may need searching later |