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1024-bit encryption claims a first...

A free email service from hushmail.com is offering what it claims is "fully encrypted, completely private" email for free.
Written by Jane Wakefield, Contributor

Using a patent-pending process it calls "public key cryptosystem" Hushmail claims its system is the ultimate in security with absolutely no-one but sender and recipient able to read emails.

The system uses 1024-bit encryption and runs on Java. A password, selected by the user, is combined with an algorithm to encrypt users' private key before it is stored on the Hushmail server. The only thing that will decrypt the key, according to the company, is the user's password, combined with the algorithm.

Is this system as solid as it claims? Opinions to the Mailroom please.

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