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I would like to make a digital equivalent of an envelop with a seal that must be broken to open. The idea is that it can be seen that the seal has been broken. I know that it is impossible to make this 100% safe, but for the use case I am imagining, it is sufficient that very difficult to open the seal without "breaking it". I am thinking of storing a text file with some important information.
Any ideas?
Edit: This is as much a thought experiment as something I've actually decided to do. I kind of figured that the data probably have to be stored remotely, like the web server or email auto-reply suggestions, but I was wondering if somebody could come up with a unique solution for storing it locally. I suppose storing just the encryption key remotely or IRL may be as close as we can come.
Are you talking about encrypting the file? – Linger – 2012-10-19T14:09:05.750
Even if you found something like this, the problem with files is that, unlike envelopes, digital information is easily reproduced. If your intention is to be able to tell whether someone has read a particular file on your computer, what's to stop them from making a copy and reading it on another computer? The original left on your computer would then still have its "seal" intact. – Indrek – 2012-10-19T14:13:32.793
If this is an "After I Die" set of instructions or information sort of file, here is the best plan that I have come up with. Encrypt the file and put the encryption key on a piece of paper in and actual envelope. Put the envelope in a safe deposit box or give it to whomever you want to have access at the appropriate time. – EBGreen – 2012-10-19T14:17:48.353
2What you want is not possible with digital files. – Ramhound – 2012-10-19T14:38:29.700