KeyPackage Functionality

The KeyPackage feature is designed to securely package and transfer key data—including both public and private keys—between devices. This enables users to maintain their cryptographic identities across platforms. Starting from version 2.1.9, KeyPackage functionality has been significantly enhanced to improve security, encryption strength, and user control.

Important: KeyPackages created with v2.1.9 and later are not compatible with those created in previous versions.

Security Enhancements Since v2.1.9

• Encryption Algorithm: KeyPackage data is now encrypted with AES-256-GCM (authenticated encryption), providing both confidentiality and integrity protection. Earlier versions used AES-256-ECB, which lacks integrity checking.

Key Generation:

• The encryption key for the KeyPackage is generated using GnuPG’s built-in random number generator through the GPG interface.
• If GPG entropy is unavailable, the system falls back to OpenSSL’s secure random generator.
• Prior to v2.1.9, QRandom was used for key generation, providing weaker security guarantees.

Naming Convention: KeyPackage names are now generated in the format KeyPackage_, where is a strong random identifier encoded in zbase32. Previous versions used a numeric format such as KeyPackage_41132.

PIN Protection:

• After generating the KeyPackage, users are required to set a PIN. The actual KeyPackage encryption key is then encrypted with this PIN using modern authenticated encryption.
• This means that, in addition to the KeyPackage file itself, a separate “key file” is generated and must be kept together with the KeyPackage. Both are required, along with the PIN, for a successful import.
• Without the correct PIN, the KeyPackage cannot be decrypted or used.

Creating a KeyPackage

To create a KeyPackage, follow these steps:

1. Open the Key Management Interface: Navigate to the main interface where you manage your keys.

2. Export Keys: Click on the “Export Key” button to initiate the export process.

3. Choose KeyPackage Export: Select the option to export keys as a KeyPackage. This will open a new dialog box for configuring the KeyPackage.

4. Configure KeyPackage:

   • KeyPackage Name: In the first field, you will see a generated name for the KeyPackage, such as KeyPackage_<zbase>. You can click the button labeled “Generate Key Package Name” to generate a new name if desired.
   • Output Path: In the second field, click the button labeled “Select Output Path” to choose where to save the KeyPackage file.
   • Passphrase: In the third field, click the button labeled “Generate and Save Passphrase” to generate and save a key for the KeyPackage. You will later be prompted to provide a PIN; make sure it is strong and confidential.

5. Optional Settings:

   • Include Secret Keys: Check the box labeled “Include secret key (Think twice before acting)” if you want to include private keys in the KeyPackage. This is generally not recommended unless necessary.
   • Exclude Keys without Private Parts: Check the box labeled “Exclude keys that do not have a private key” to exclude keys that do not have associated private keys.

6. Export: Once all settings are configured and reviewed, click the “OK” button to create and export the KeyPackage.

By following these steps, you can create a secure KeyPackage to transfer your cryptographic keys between devices.

Security Notice

When the KeyPackage is successfully created, a message will inform you that the package is protected with encryption algorithms (e.g., AES-256-GCM) and is safe to transfer.

Never disclose the KeyPackage or key file to untrusted parties. After transfer, delete all copies from intermediate storage locations.

Transferring the KeyPackage

To transfer the KeyPackage:

1. Use a secure transfer method to move the .gpgpack file to the target device. Use a secure transfer method (e.g., encrypted USB drive, encrypted email, or a secure network channel) to move both the .gpgpack file and its associated .key file to the target device.
2. Once transferred, import the KeyPackage into the key management tool on the target device using the passphrase set during the creation process.

After Transfer: Importing

To import the KeyPackage after transferring it to the target device, follow these steps:

• Initiate Import: Open the key management tool on the target device and click on the “Import Key” button.
• Select KeyPackage Option: As shown in the image, from the dropdown menu, select the “Key Package” option. This indicates that you will be importing a KeyPackage.
• Select KeyPackage File: A file selection dialog will appear. First, choose the .gpgpack file that you transferred. This file contains the packaged keys.
• Select Key File: After selecting the .gpgpack file, another file selection dialog will prompt you to choose the corresponding key file. This key file is used to decrypt the KeyPackage.
• Enter PIN: You will be prompted for the PIN that was set during KeyPackage creation.
• Import: Once the correct PIN is entered, your keys will be imported.

By following these steps, you can securely import your cryptographic keys from the KeyPackage into the key management tool on the target device.

Compatibility Notice

• KeyPackages created with v2.1.9 or later are not compatible with previous versions. Attempting to import a v2.1.9 KeyPackage into an older GpgFrontend release will fail.
• Legacy KeyPackages: If you need to migrate old KeyPackages, do so before upgrading, or export and repackage your keys after upgrading to v2.1.9.

Security Notice

• KeyPackage encryption is now much stronger, using modern, authenticated cryptography and a PIN-protected key hierarchy.
• Both the .gpgpack file and its .key file are required for import, in addition to your PIN.
• Always delete KeyPackage files and key files from all devices and intermediaries after transfer is complete.

Best Practices

• Always transfer key data via secure, encrypted channels.
• Choose a strong, unique PIN and do not share it.
• Delete all KeyPackage and key files after successful import, including any backup or email attachments.