To send a secure email in Outlook, you generally need to encrypt your email. This requires obtaining and installing a digital certificate (S/MIME) or using Microsoft 365 Message Encryption if your subscription supports it. After setting up encryption, you compose a new email, click on the Options tab, select Encrypt, choose the appropriate encryption method, and then send the email.
Steps to Send Secure Email in Outlook:
- Obtain a digital certificate (from a trusted provider like Comodo, DigiCert, or GlobalSign) or ensure your Microsoft 365 subscription supports Message Encryption.
- Install and configure the digital certificate in Outlook via File > Options > Trust Center > Trust Center Settings > Email Security.
- Compose a new email and in the Options tab, select Encrypt or apply permissions like Do Not Forward.
- Send the email; it will be encrypted so only authorized recipients can read it.
Encryption Methods:
- S/MIME: Uses digital certificates to encrypt emails; recipients must also have certificates.
- Microsoft 365 Message Encryption: Works with or without recipient certificates, available with certain Microsoft 365 plans.
Additional Features:
- Digital signatures can be added for authentication.
- Permissions like Do Not Forward control how recipients can use the email content.
This process secures your email against unauthorized reading and ensures the integrity of your message.
