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Encrypted Email and File Sharing

Gmail confidential mode is the recommended email encryption tool for Boise State users. Virtru is also available but limited.

Gmail Confidential Mode

Confidential mode is available on all Boise State Gmail accounts. With Gmail confidential mode, users can send sensitive information as messages and attachments with the extra protection of setting an expiration date and passcode to access the information. Recipients won’t have the option to forward, copy, print, or download the email. Please note this does not prevent recipients from taking screenshots or photos of your message or attachment.

How to Access Gmail Confidential Mode

  1. On your computer, go to Gmail.
  2. Click Compose.
  3. In the bottom right of the window, click Toggle confidential mode.
  4. Set an expiration date and passcode. If you choose “No SMS passcode,” recipients using the Gmail app will be able to open it directly. Recipients who don’t use Gmail will get emailed a passcode. If you choose “SMS passcode,” recipients will get a passcode by text message. Recipient’s phone number is required.
  5. Click Save.

How to Use Gmail Confidential Mode

Additional information on how to use Gmail confidential mode is available on the Gmail Help Center.

Virtru

Virtru is a secure email and file-sharing tool that enhances the security and confidentiality of email communications by using email encryption and secure cloud file sharing to protect sensitive information sent to and from your Boise State Gmail account. Using Virtru remains subject to Public Records Requests.

Encryption can be enabled to ensure message security. However, encrypted messages may be retained, and un-encrypted, by the University for public records and litigation hold purposes. Messages are retained for 30 days after deleted unless they have been placed on hold for public records or litigation hold purposes. Certain correspondence should not be deleted – see University Policy 1020 (Public Records Management).

How to Access Virtru

To obtain a Virtru license, please submit a request through Help Desk Self Service. Distribution is based on individual and department use cases.

How to Use Virtru

Information on how to use Virtru is available on the Virtru Knowledge Base website.

Need Assistance?

For more information, contact the Help Desk at (208) 426-4357, helpdesk@boisestate.edu, chat, or Help Desk Self-Service.