FaradayWire Messenger

FaradayWire delivers true end-to-end encrypted messaging with YubiKey hardware security, keeping your conversations private and fully in your control.

FaradayWire is a secure messaging app created from the ground up to protect your privacy. By combining modern encryption with hardware-backed security, it’s designed to put you in control of your conversations.

Every message is end-to-end encrypted using AES-256-GCM with a unique per-message key. That key is securely encrypted using modern public-key cryptography—either elliptic-curve encryption or RSA—so only you and your intended recipient can read the message. Unlike traditional messaging apps, FaradayWire integrates with YubiKey hardware security keys, ensuring your private keys stay off the cloud and off your phone.

For users without a YubiKey, FaradayWire also supports generating and storing private keys securely on the device.

Hardware Requirements (if using a YubiKey)

• Works out-of-the-box with any YubiKey 5 Series (e.g., 5C NFC, 5 NFC, 5C, 5Ci).
• iPhone compatibility: NFC and USB-C connections are supported on compatible devices; Lightning requires a YubiKey 5Ci.

Using a New vs. Used YubiKey

• New key: Plug in or tap to set up—no extra steps.
• Used key: If the key is already used by another app’s PIV Key Management slot (9d), you’ll be asked to create a fresh key for FaradayWire. This replaces any existing 9d key on that YubiKey. If you need to keep the old one, use a different slot/key.

Technical Details

• FaradayWire uses the YubiKey PIV applet, generating an RSA-2048 key in slot 9d for message decryption.
• When decrypting on iPhone without a YubiKey, FaradayWire uses elliptic-curve keys and ECIES-based encryption to protect message keys.
• Current version supports the default PIV PIN; custom PINs will be supported soon.
• Ports: USB-C (iPhone 15+), Lightning via 5Ci, and NFC where available.

Features

• True end-to-end encryption — Messages and photos are encrypted before they leave your device and only the recipient can decrypt them.
• YubiKey integration — Hardware-backed key management keeps private keys off the cloud and off your device.
• Option to use secure local device private key storage if not using a YubiKey.
• Physical message decryption — Decrypt messages directly with your YubiKey.
• Message Re-Encryption — Messages are re-encrypted after returning to the main conversations page.
• Simple, immersive experience — A sleek, Matrix-inspired interface that stays intuitive.
• Privacy by design — No ads, no data mining, no unnecessary tracking.
• Fast & reliable — Built on modern infrastructure for seamless delivery and sync.

FaradayWire is inspired by Michael Faraday’s work in shielding against unwanted interference. Like a Faraday cage blocks outside signals, FaradayWire helps shield your conversations from prying eyes.

Take back control of your digital privacy. Start messaging securely with FaradayWire.