Opening Virtru-Encrypted Email: Instructions for Recipients

Recipients of email sent using Virtru at U-M for encryption must decrypt the email before they can read the contents or open any attachments. This document contains instructions for doing that.

 Automatic Decryption with Extension or App

  • Before you send encrypted email to someone at U-M for the first time, consider sending them a message encouraging them to install the Virtru extension. 

If the message recipient has the Virtru extension for Chrome installed, the encrypted message will decrypt automatically when they open it. It will also decrypt automatically if they have set up Virtru for Outlook or the Virtru mobile app. See Install, Activate, and Reactivate Virtru at U-M.

Or Use the Virtru Secure Reader to Unlock the Message

Before you send encrypted email to someone who does not use Google Mail at U-M, consider sending them a message letting them know what to expect and providing a link to the instructions for decrypting the message

Those who do not use Google Mail at U-M or Virtru can unlock email encrypted with Virtru after verifying their identity.

  1. Open the encrypted message, and click the Unlock Message button.
    The recipient sees text saying that you—it includes your email address—are using Virtru to send and receive encrypted email at teh University of Michigan. Below that text is an "Unlock Message" button.
  2. When prompted, select your email address. This needs to be the address to which the email was sent.
  3. Verify that you are the owner of that email account by signing in with Google or by using a one-time verification code sent to that address.

For complete instruction and trouble-shooting tips, see: Read and Reply to a Virtru Encrypted Email without Virtru Installed.

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Last Updated: 
Friday, August 28, 2020