Key verification¶
Short definition¶
Check that the key used matches the key expected for your contact.
Concrete example¶
Alice and Bob compare a fingerprint through a separate channel they trust.
What it protects¶
Reduces some key-substitution or impersonation risks.
What it does not protect¶
A consistent key does not automatically certify civil identity.
Why it matters¶
Encrypting to the wrong key can protect the message for the wrong person.
Example messenger behaviour¶
For Signal username-only without knowing the peer’s number, compare the Safety Number; AKV does not attest identity.
Technical details
Key transparency checks identifier–key consistency; human authentication and out-of-band checks are separate.