[ Info on offline readers ]
I haven't fussed around with offline readers much, but I'll bet it'd be pretty simple to add a step to the collection/.ZIP process, which would encrypt the whole package with some prearranged key.
Yes, that's a definite possibility. Most of the popular offline readers require that you first send them a packet (usually empty) so that they will put you in the database. The reader could just accept a certain file (pubkey.asc for example) that contains the key you want to be used. Then all sessions with you will be so encrypted. Your mail to the BBS could also be encrypted with the BBS's public key. Unfortunately, one problem still exists: I don't know of too many BBS's where the e-mail messages are actually encrypted on the disk. As a matter of fact, the SYSOP can usually read all mail.
This would allow folks to use standard BBS programs, standard terminal programs, and perhaps even standard offline readers. It should be pretty simple from a programming standpoint, as well; it's perhaps implementable with only batch commands. Yes, the "bad guys" will get to watch the user log on and log off, and can read the menus and choices - but so what? It's possible (easy, really) to encrypt all of the really interesting stuff.
Some of those programs (MegaMail, TomCat, etc) run PKUNZIP to unzip the file(s) then take care of the files themselves. There isn't an easy way to throw in encryption. I would be willing to add an encryption option to my offline mail software, though. I have written a UTI (Universal Text Interface) for ChaelBoard that lets it interface with RelayNet(tm) and offline mail readers that use UTI's. I also write a QWK/REP interface that allows ChaelBoard to be a node (the hub software isn't quite done yet) on WildNet and for offline mail reading/replying. I could implement encryption in the ZIP/UNZIP step (for the users who have PGP keys registered with the BBS). Do you think it's worth my time? Chael Hall -- Chael Hall nowhere@bsu-cs.bsu.edu, 00CCHALL@BSUVC.BSU.EDU (317) 285-3648 after 5 pm EST