LibrePGP is an alternative specification for the OpenPGP message format. It was established following disagreements over changes proposed during the development of a revised IETF OpenPGP standard.
The initiative places particular emphasis on continuity with existing implementations and cryptographic formats. Its contributors argue that established encryption deployments need predictable interoperability and a stable basis for long-term data protection.
LibrePGP incorporates earlier OpenPGP extensions and proposes additional changes to cryptographic algorithms, key formats and security requirements. It is maintained by a study group including representatives of g10 Code, Ribose and other interested implementers.
LibrePGP is a technical specification rather than an encryption application. Implementations such as GnuPG and RNP provide software capable of working with the formats it describes.
Key Features
- Defines an alternative evolution of the established OpenPGP message format.
- Focuses on compatibility with existing OpenPGP software and stored encrypted data.
- Incorporates earlier extensions for elliptic-curve cryptography.
- Includes support for the Camellia encryption algorithm.
- Specifies public-key formats and fingerprint mechanisms.
- Describes algorithms and requirements for encryption and digital signatures.
- Addresses authenticated encryption and message-integrity protection.
- Discourages the creation of messages using obsolete cryptographic algorithms.
- Includes proposals for post-quantum cryptographic algorithms.
- Provides technical guidance for developers implementing compatible encryption software.
- Aims to support long-term security and interoperability for existing deployments.
Website: librepgp.org/
Support:
Developer: LibrePGP study group
License: –
Related Software
| Email Encryption Tools | |
|---|---|
| GnuPG | Encrypt and sign data and communication |
| OpenPGP | Authenticating or encrypting data, using public key cryptography |
| Mailvelope | Extension for Google Chrome and Mozilla Firefox |
| Enigmail | OpenPGP Email Security for Mozilla Applications |
| LibrePGP | Updated specification of the OpenPGP encryption standard |
| Mymail-Crypt for Gmail | Simple solution to mail encryption; not affiliated with Google |
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