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1.1. DoD Email Encryption / Digital Signatures FAQ
Last updated: Fri Aug 2024 09:25 AM (EDT)
Frequently Asked Questions Regarding DoD Email and Encryption/Digital Signatures on a CRL Asset
NOTE: Third-party encryption certificates should not be considered the first option for DoD communications and will only be issued by the CRL IT Team in special circumstances on a case-by-case basis. Please refer to this FAQ and consult your government contact for guidance on resolving any data compliance issues.
Q: How do I read encrypted e-mails from a DoD source (e.g., FlankSpeed, Army365) on my CRL-issued PC?
A: Email encryption with DoD systems can be complex. Here’s what you need to know:
- Outlook Web Access (OWA): If the encrypted email is sent from a DoD Outlook Web Access (OWA), it can be read within the corresponding DoD OWA environment.
- Outlook Client: If the encrypted email is sent from the Outlook client on a DoD-issued machine, it must be read using the Outlook client on another DoD-issued machine.
Important: When encryption and digital signatures are required, you should use your authorized DoD accounts (e.g., FlankSpeed) rather than your CRL corporate account to avoid compatibility issues.
Example: If an NMCI user sends an encrypted email via the Outlook client and the recipient attempts to open it on a CRL-issued PC using OWA, they may encounter issues. This is a known problem, and as of August 29, 2024, no solution has been provided.
Q: Are there any workarounds?
A: Navy/FlankSpeed Users: Navy contractors can use the Nautilus Virtual Desktop (NVD) to access the NMCI network, which allows them to handle encrypted emails and other tasks that require NMCI network access. For more information, refer to the NVD FAQ here: Nautilus Virtual Desktop for FlankSpeed (NVD) FAQ (helpspot.com).
This setup ensures compliance and functionality when dealing with encrypted communications.