CHAPTER 1
INTRODUCTION
- In today’s digital era, where the communication is predominantly online, maintaining the confidentiality and integrity of messages has become increasingly crucial. With the rise in cyber threats, surveillance, and unauthorized data access, users are becoming more conscious of their digital privacy. Despite this awareness, many existing secure messaging solutions are often too complex for the average user or lack transparency in how data is handled and protected.
- This project, titled “Shielded Chat,” addresses the need for a lightweight, user-friendly, and secure messaging platform that utilizes layered encryption techniques based on classical cryptography—namely, the Vigenère Cipher and the Polybius Square Cipher. By integrating these two traditional encryption methods, the system aims to enhance security through increased confusion and obfuscation, thereby making intercepted messages significantly harder to decrypt.
- The core problem lies in the lack of accessible, educational, and secure communication tools. A large portion of users still communicate sensitive information without encryption, often unaware of the risks involved. Shielded Chat fills this gap by presenting a functional and educational prototype that demonstrates how classical encryption techniques can still play a role in promoting privacy and security in messaging.
1.2 Objectives
The objectives of the Shielded Chat project are as follows:
- Confidentiality: Ensure that only intended recipients can read the message contents through end-to-end encryption.
- Integrity: Prevent tampering of messages during transmission through optional cryptographic checks.
- Authentication: Support verification of sender identity to prevent impersonation or unauthorized access.
- Lightweight Cryptography: Design encryption mechanisms that are efficient and resource-friendly, suitable for mobile and low-power devices.
- Robust Protection: Safeguard against eavesdropping and interception by applying layered classical ciphers.
- Layered Security: Utilize a combination of the Vigenère and Polybius Square ciphers for enhanced encryption strength.
- User-Friendly Interface: Offer a minimal and intuitive chat interface with seamless encryption and decryption.
- Cross-Platform Compatibility: Ensure consistent encryption behavior across different devices and operating systems.
- Instant Message Encryption: Enable real-time encryption the moment a message is sent.
- Simple and Clean Chat Experience: Eliminate unnecessary features and provide a distraction-free, secure chat environment.
1.3 Scope of the Project
The scope of Shielded Chat is to develop a web-based front-end messaging platform that encrypts and decrypts text messages using classical cipher techniques. The goal is to deliver a proof-of-concept application demonstrating how secure communication can be achieved through traditional cryptography without relying on complex infrastructure.
In-Scope Features:
- User Interface: Design a clean and intuitive UI for sending and receiving encrypted text messages.
- Vigenère Cipher: Implement polyalphabetic substitution based on a user-defined key.
- Polybius Square Cipher: Apply coordinate-based character encoding for an additional layer of security.
- Decryption Logic: Enable message recipients to decode messages accurately using the correct keys and method.
- Responsive Layout: Support various screen sizes for mobile and desktop compatibility.
- Realistic Chat Simulation: Provide a prototype environment that mimics real-time encrypted communication.
Out of Scope:
- Data Storage: The system will not store messages or user data persistently.
- Multimedia Messaging: Voice, image, or video messages are not supported.
- Modern Encryption Standards: No use of modern algorithms like RSA, AES, or public key infrastructure.
- Server-Side Functionality: The system is entirely front-end with no backend processing.
1.4 Significance of the Project
- Shielded Chat addresses key privacy concerns and promotes secure communication practices in the digital landscape. Its relevance and value include:
- Promotion of Secure Communication: Encourages encryption-first messaging to protect against unauthorized access.
- Educational Value: Demonstrates the practical application of classical ciphers, making encryption concepts more tangible for students and beginners.
- Privacy-First Design: Avoids data retention and metadata tracking, aligning with modern privacy best practices.
- Foundation for Future Development: Acts as a stepping stone for implementing advanced cryptographic systems in future projects.
- Demonstration of Classical Ciphers in Real Use: Highlights how traditional cryptography can be integrated into a functional communication platform.
1.5 Target Audience
- The target audience for Shielded Chat includes:
- Privacy Conscious Individuals: Users who value private communication, including journalists, activists, and general users concerned with surveillance.
- Remote Workers and Teams: Professionals the exchanging sensitive business information requiring confidentiality.
- Tech Savvy Users and Developers: Enthusiasts familiar with encryption and interested in privacy-centric platforms.
- Educational Institutions: Students, educators, and researchers involved in information security, cryptography, or computer science.
- NGOs and Humanitarian Organizations: Teams operating in sensitive environments requiring secure communication tools.
- Cybersecurity Enthusiasts: Individuals passionate about data protection and open-source privacy solutions.
CHAPTER 2
LITERATURE SURVEY
2.1 Review of Existing Systems
In the realm of secure messaging, both classical and modern encryption methods have been the explored. Below is a review of related systems and how Shielded Chat differs:
1.Modified Vigenère Cipher with Bit Level Encryption
Features: Introduced randomness at the byte level to enhance resistance against traditional attacks.
Limitations:
Ciphertext inflation ( 56% size increase).
High memory usage, unsuitable for the lightweight systems.
Still inherits Vigenère weaknesses, especially with key reuse.
2.Hybrid Caesar and Vigenère Cipher System
Features: Combines Caesar and Vigenère to support extended character sets.
Limitations:
No modern encryption practices (e.g., key exchange).
Increased complexity for low resource or manual systems.
Not suitable for dynamic or real time communication.
3.Standard Vigenère Cipher
Features: Popular historical cipher known for polyalphabetic substitution.
Limitations:
Vulnerable to cryptanalysis (e.g., the Kasiski method, frequency analysis).
Insecure if keys are short or reused.
Lacks support for real time or modern communication needs.
How Shielded Chat Adds and Value
Combines two classical techniques to enhance complexity and confusion in ciphertext.
Ensures end to end client side encryption without requiring server storage or user accounts.
Maintains a low memory footprint, suitable for real-time, browser-based communication.
Promotes anonymity and ease of use through a clean, intuitive interface.
Acts as a stepping stone for students and developers toward more robust encryption systems.
CHAPTER 3
SYSTEM DESIGN AND IMPLEMENTATION
3.1 Overview of the Website
Shielded Chat is a lightweight, web-based platform focused on secure, anonymous, and real-time text communication through end-to-end encryption. The system emphasizes privacy, simplicity, and user autonomy by operating entirely client-side, without storing messages or requiring user accounts.
Key Features:
End-to-End Encryption
Messages are encrypted on the sender’s device using a shared key and can only be decrypted by the recipient with the same key.
No Account Required
Users can exchange messages without creating accounts, maintaining complete anonymity.
Minimal of Responsive UI
A clean, distraction-free interface ensures easy usage across desktops, tablets, and smartphones.
Ephemeral Messaging
No messages are stored; content is deleted once sent or read, supporting a zero-retention communication model.
Cross-Platform Compatibility
Fully functional on any modern device through a responsive web interface.
Target Users:
Privacy-conscious individuals
Journalists, researchers, and whistleblowers
Students and developers exploring cryptography
Professionals needing private, secure exchanges
Technology Stack:
Component Technology Used
Programming JavaScript, TypeScript
Front-End React, Next.js, Tailwind CSS
Back-End (if any): Node.js (for optional integration)
3.2 Pages and Navigation Flow
Shielded Chat comprises two main functional pages: one for encryption (sender side) and one for decryption (receiver side), reflecting the dual roles in secure communication.
1.Encryption Page (Sender Side)
Purpose:
To allow users to enter a plaintext message and a secret key and then encrypt the message securely for transmission.
Features:
Message Input Area:
A text box for the user to type their original message.
Encryption Key Field:
A required field for the user to input a shared secret key.
Encrypt Button:
Triggers the encryption function and outputs the ciphertext.
Encrypted Output Display:
A read-only box showing the encrypted message, ready for copying and sharing.
Navigation to Decryption Page:
A button or link allows users to switch to the decryption interface.
Workflow:
The user types the message.
The user enters a secret encryption key.
The user clicks “Encrypt.”
An encrypted message is generated and displayed.
2.Decryption Page Receiver Side
Purpose:
To allow the recipient of an encrypted message to decrypt it using the shared secret key.
Features:
Encrypted Message Input:
A field to paste the received ciphertext.
Decryption Key Field:
Input for the shared key used during encryption.
Decrypt Button:
Initiates the decryption process.
Decrypted Message Output:
Displays the original plaintext if decryption is successful.
Error Handling:
If the decryption fails (due to an incorrect key or message corruption), a clear error is shown.
Navigation to Encryption Page:
A button or link to return to the sender interface.
Workflow:
The user pastes the encrypted message.
The user enters the decryption key.
The user clicks “Decrypt.”
The original message is revealed, or an error is shown if the key is incorrect.
Navigation Flow Diagram:
CSS
[ Encryption Page ]
↕
[ Decryption Page ]
3.3 Features of Implemented
Feature Description
- Message Encryption: Encrypts plaintext using the Vigenère and Polybius ciphers; requires message and secret key.
- Message Decryption: Accepts encrypted text and secret key; decrypts to recover original message.
- Two-Page Communication: Separation of sender and receiver interfaces to model real-world secure message exchange.
- Key-Based Security: Manual entry of encryption/decryption key by the user; the system does not store or generate keys.
- Copy-Friendly Output: Read-only output fields make it easy to copy ciphertext or plaintext to use on other platforms.
- Page Navigation: Smooth navigation links allow users to move between encryption and decryption views.
- Clean UI Layout Minimal design with clear labels and functional buttons ensures usability and accessibility.
- Basic Input Validation: Validates input fields to prevent empty submissions or operations without required data.
- Decryption Error Handling: Displays informative messages if the decryption fails due to an incorrect key or invalid input.
- Lightweight Architecture No backend message storage; all operations are performed in-browser, maintaining user privacy and data confidentiality.
CHAPTER 4
SYSTEM ANALYSIS
4.1 Intended User of Profiles
Shielded Chat is designed to meet the security and privacy needs of diverse users. Below are real-world-inspired personas that represent the core users of the application:
1.Sarah Human Rights Lawyer
Scenario: Representing a whistleblower revealing illegal government surveillance.
Need: Untraceable and encrypted communication to protect client confidentiality.
How Shielded Chat Helps: Enables Sarah to share sensitive legal updates securely using one-time passphrases, without storing any chat history.
2.Mark Investigative Journalist
Scenario: Exchanging classified documents and story leads with a defense contractor source.
Need: Complete anonymity and protection from surveillance or data leaks.
How Shielded Chat Helps: Allows Mark to use and shared secret keys for encrypted exchanges without requiring user accounts or metadata retention.
3.Dr. Eleni Psychologist
Scenario: Providing remote mental health services in a country with strict regulatory controls.
Need: Secure patient communication that avoids digital traceability.
How Shielded Chat Helps: Enables ephemeral encrypted messaging to support clients during sessions without retaining any patient information.
4.2 Proposed Use Cases
Use Case Persona Interaction
- Legal – Whistleblower Chat Sarah, a human rights lawyer, uses a shared passphrase to send encrypted legal guidance. The recipient decrypts once and deletes after reading.
- Mental Health – Anonymous Support Ayesha, a 21-year-old student, receives encrypted counseling messages and deletes them post-reading for privacy.
- Journalism – Anonymous Tip Line Ravi, Factory Worker Sends encrypted tips via a cybercafé, deleting history and leaving no identity trace.
4.3 End to End User Flow
Step by Step User Journey:
Homepage Access
The user visits Shielded Chat on desktop or mobile.
Two clear options are presented:
- Send Encrypted Message
- Decrypt Received Message
Message Composition Encryption Mode
The user selects Send Encrypted Message.
Inputs message and encryption key (e.g., “Justice2025!”).
Optional: Set message to expire after viewing or time.
Encryption Process
The message is encrypted client-side (in-browser) using dual-layer encryption.
Output is a ciphertext block or one time link.
Nothing is stored or sent to a server.
Sharing
The ciphertext or link is shared via any external secure channel.
The key is shared securely (offline or otherwise agreed).
Decryption Process
The receiver selects Decrypt Received Message.
Pastes ciphertext or accesses link, inputs the shared key.
The message is decrypted and shown on their device only.
Secure Reading & Session End
The message is viewable only once or until the tab/browser is closed.
No chat logs, no account traces left behind.
Flow Summary Diagram:
Homepage
↓
Compose Message
↓
Enter Key.
↓
Encrypt → Share Encrypted Text
↓
Recipient Decrypts
↓
Reads Securely
↓
Done (Zero Trace)
4.4 Benefits to Users
Enhanced Security
Layered encryption using Vigenère and Polybius ciphers provides advanced obfuscation and stronger defense than single cipher systems.
Educational Value
Ideal for students and security enthusiasts to learn classical encryption techniques through hands-on usage.
Lightweight and Customizable
Designed for low-resource environments; does not rely on heavy backend or encryption libraries.
User-Friendly Interface
Minimal design and straightforward navigation ensure even non-technical users can operate it with ease.
Offline Capability
Can function entirely offline using of classical algorithms, perfect for simulations or restricted networks.
Platform Independence
Can be easily adapted for web, mobile, or desktop use due to its modular, front-end-focused architecture.
CHAPTER 5
IMPLEMENTATION
5.1 Folder Structure
The following is a typical folder structure for the Shielded Chat project, suitable for Python or JavaScript React implementations:
5.2 Key Tailwind CSS Files
If implemented using Tailwind CSS in a React or Next.js environment, the primary Tailwind configuration and styling files would include:
File Name Purpose
tailwind.config.js Configuration for theme, colors, fonts, responsive breakpoints, etc.
postcss.config.js Required for Tailwind CSS to work with modern frameworks
styles/globals.css Global styling (where Tailwind directives like @tailwind base go)
components.tsx React components using Tailwind utility classes for consistent styling
Common Tailwind Utilities Used in Shielded Chat:
bg-gray-100, bg-white—Clean, minimalist backgrounds
rounded-md, shadow-lg – For message box design
p-4, m-2, text-center – Spacing and layout
hover:bg-blue-500 – Button interactivity
dark: prefix – Dark mode support (optional)
type & interface Used to the define structured data types and enforce consistency in component props and application logic.
Props: Define the shape of props passed to React components, enabling type-checking and preventing runtime errors.
useState() strongly types component state, ensuring type safety when updating or accessing state variables.
React.FC Declares a functional React component using typed props, promoting cleaner and reusable component structures.
Event Typing: Provides explicit typing for input and DOM events (e.g., React.ChangeEvent) to ensure safe event handling in forms and input fields.
5.3 Responsive Design Elements
Shielded Chat adopts a mobile first responsive design approach using Tailwind CSS, ensuring seamless usability across various devices and screen sizes. The UI is clean, modern, and minimalistic, optimized for distraction-free secure communication.
Key Responsive Design Implementation Points:
Mobile-First Approach:
Tailwind’s mobile-first utility classes (sm:, md:, lg:) build layouts optimized for small screens by default and scale up for larger devices.
Flexible Layouts (Flex/Grid):
Core components such as the chat pane, input bar, and layout containers use utilities like flex-col, grid-cols-1 md:grid-cols-2, and justify-between for dynamic rearrangement across breakpoints.
Adaptive Text and Spacing:
Elements use scalable font and spacing classes like text-sm md:text-base lg:text-lg and p-2 md:p-4 to ensure readability on all devices.
Responsive Widths and Containers:
Classes like w-full, max-w-screen-sm, and container mx-auto prevent content overflow and enhance visual hierarchy.
Sticky & Scrollable Regions:
The message pane uses overflow-y-auto and height calculations (h-[calc(100vh-150px)]) to stay scrollable. Input components use fixed and bottom-0 to remain in view.
Visibility Controls:
Elements are shown or hidden based on screen width using hidden, block, and responsive visibility classes md:block, optimizing the UI per device.
Dark Mode Support:
Tailwind’s dark variant (dark:bg-gray-800, dark:text-white) enables visual comfort in low-light settings, toggled by user preference or system settings.
Fig 5.3: Secure Communication Interface – Responsive Layout Illustration
5.4 Product Listing and Management
Implementation Explanation:
In the Shielded Chat system, “products” refer to modular features such as encryption algorithms (Vigenère, Polybius), message I/O, and theming. Each is presented clearly in the UI and organized cleanly in the codebase for scalability and maintenance.
Key Concepts:
Modular Structure:
Encryption methods, decryption logic, chat UI, and utility functions are separated into self-contained modules (/encryption, /gui, /utils).
Organized UI Access:
Buttons, toggles, and selection panels allow users to engage with each core function (e.g., select encryption method) through a clean interface.
Backend Code Management:
Logical code separation supports better team collaboration and future feature expansion without disrupting existing modules.
Scalability:
New features (e.g., Caesar cipher or RSA integration) can be added independently and registered within the existing UI/product structure.
Future Controls:
Admin-level toggles could allow feature enable/disable, custom UI themes, or activity tracking for enterprise or educational deployments.
CHAPTER 6
TESTING
6.1 Testing Strategy
The testing process validates encryption correctness, UI responsiveness, and end-to-end message flow using:
Unit Testing:
Applied to Vigenère and Polybius cipher modules using tools like unittest, pytest, or Jest.
Integration Testing:
Verifies interaction between input forms, encryption logic, and rendered output across encryption/decryption pages.
Manual UI Testing:
Checks layout responsiveness using DevTools and responsive previews across devices.
Security Testing:
Confirms that no plaintext or keys are exposed, even momentarily, in client-server communication or browser memory.
Tools & Technologies Used
Category Tools / Languages
Programming Python, TypeScript
Frameworks/Libraries React.js, Tailwind CSS, Tkinter (optional)
Encryption Vigenère Cipher, Polybius Cipher
Dev Tools VS Code, Git, GitHub, Postman
Testing PyTest, Jest, Browser DevTools, and Selenium
Build/Dependency Node.js, npm
6.2 Browser Compatibility
To ensure a seamless experience across environments, Shielded Chat is tested across major browsers and operating systems.
Supported Browsers:
Google Chrome (latest)
Mozilla Firefox
Microsoft Edge (Chromium)
Opera, Brave, Vivaldi
Safari (partial support confirmed)
Testing Checklist:
Browser Compatibility: UI and encryption work across all major browsers.
Device Compatibility: Confirmed on desktops, tablets, and mobile (Android/iOS).
OS Compatibility: Tested on Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS.
Resolution Testing: UI validated from 360×640 (mobile) up to 1920×1080 (desktop).
Input Method Support: Full support for keyboard, mouse, and touch interactions.
Responsive Layout: Tailwind utilities are used for fluid layout adaptation.
6.3 Encryption Functionality Testing
This phase focuses on verifying the correctness and robustness of the encryption/decryption features.
Test Scenarios and Expected Outcomes:
Test Case Expected Result
Encrypt with valid key Correct cipher text is generated.
Decrypt with correct key Original plaintext is restored.
Encrypt with empty key Operation fails with user-friendly error.
Special characters in input Either sanitized or skipped based on cipher logic.
Case sensitivity Normalization ensures consistent output.
Long message (500+ chars) Successfully encrypted and decrypted.
Multi-layer encryption Decryption follows the correct reverse sequence.
Speed test Message processed in less than 1s for typical sizes.
Session-to-session decryption Cipher text remains compatible and decryptable across browser sessions.
Corrupted ciphertext input Error message shown without crashing.
Tools Used:
Manual Testing : Desktop/mobile browsers
Selenium Automation: UI and workflow simulation
DevTools & Session Storage Tests
Bug Tracking : GitHub Issues for logging and resolution
6.4 Product Listing and Display Testing
Product listing and feature visibility are validated to ensure accurate rendering and responsive behavior.
Objectives:
Ensure each module of encryption type and chat tools is visible and interactable.
Test layout across screen sizes and browsers.
Validate data integrity of feature names, icons, and descriptions.
Test Cases:
Area Expected Outcome
Feature listing display All modules visible with the proper titles and icons.
Responsive layout UI adapts across devices using Tailwind classes.
Metadata accuracy Feature descriptions and tooltips are correct.
Load time performance Initial render < 2 seconds.
Missing asset handling Placeholder icons shown; layout not broken.
Sorting/filtering (if enabled) Correct UI response and display updates.
Accessibility Compatible with screen readers and keyboard navigation.
Tools Used:
Manual Testing (Desktop/Mobile Browsers)
BrowserStack (for device simulation)
Selenium Scripts
Postman (data validation)
DevTools (error simulation and inspection)
CHAPTER 7
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
7.1 Sample Outputs:
CHAPTER 7 EVALUATION
7.2 Evaluation Metrics
Evaluate the functionality, security, and user experience of Shielded Chat, a comprehensive set of evaluation metrics was applied. These metrics ensured that the application performed reliably under various operational scenarios.
1.Encryption Accuracy
The implementations of both the Vigenère and Polybius ciphers were tested using a diverse set of test cases. In all instances, messages encrypted and then decrypted matched the original input, achieving 100% accuracy.
2.Performance
Encryption and decryption times of were benchmarked for messages of varying lengths. Even for messages exceeding 500 characters, both operations were completed in under one second, meeting the performance expectations for real time use.
3.System Reliability
The application was subjected to a range of invalid inputs, including empty keys, unsupported characters, and malformed ciphertext. It successfully identified and handled these exceptions, displaying user-friendly error messages and maintaining a failure rate below 2%.
4.User Interface Responsiveness
All UI components including message panels, encryption input fields, and product listingswere tested across different screen sizes and devices. Load times remained within 2 seconds, confirming a smooth user experience.
5.Cross Browser Compatibility
Shielded Chat was tested on modern versions of Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Safari, and Microsoft Edge. No significant visual or functional discrepancies were observed, ensuring consistency across platforms.
6.Accessibility
Accessibility was validated using screen readers and keyboard navigation. Key elements featured appropriate labels and tab structures, making the application accessible to the users with assistive technologies.
7.Usability
Informal of usability testing was conducted through user surveys. Participants gave the application an average score of 8/10 or higher, highlighting the intuitive interface, easy navigation, and educational value of the system.
7.3 Comparison with Existing Systems
Shielded Chat diverges from conventional secure messaging platforms in both architecture and intent. Whereas modern tools like WhatsApp and Signal leverage advanced cryptographic algorithms such as AES, RSA, and ECC, Shielded Chat is grounded in classical cryptography, utilizing a layered combination of the Vigenère Cipher followed by the Polybius Cipher.
Key Points of Differentiation:
Educational Orientation:
Shielded Chat is designed as a learning platform, demonstrating encryption steps explicitly. This transparency stands in contrast to commercial messaging apps, where encryption processes are hidden from users to simplify the interface and ensure security.
Offline Operation:
Unlike most messaging platforms that rely on backend services and internet connectivity, Shielded Chat runs entirely client-side, requiring no user registration, server interaction, or external dependencies.
User Transparency:
The system reveals the entire encryption and decryption workflow, making it ideal for students, educators, and researchers interested in understanding how classical encryption techniques function.
Lightweight and Accessible:
Because of its offline functionality and low resource requirements, the platform is highly accessible on a wide range of devices and suitable for use in low-connectivity environments.
While it is not intended to replace secure communication platforms, Shielded Chat successfully serves as a browser-based cryptographic learning environment, providing practical exposure to cipher mechanisms in a way modern apps do not.
7.4 Challenges Faced
Throughout the development lifecycle of Shielded Chat, multiple technical and usability-related challenges emerged, requiring iterative refinement and problem-solving.
1.Cipher Integration Complexity
Merging two classical ciphers into a layered encryption system posed several challenges. Managing the flow of characters between Vigenère and Polybius transformations—while preserving readability and compatibility—demanded custom logic, particularly for handling special characters and letter casing.
2.Client Side Validation
Given that the application operates entirely without a backend, all input validation and error handling had to be managed on the frontend. This increased the complexity of maintaining stability under edge cases such as malformed ciphertext and null values.
3.Cross Browser Inconsistencies
Certain UI elements and JavaScript functionalities behaved differently across browsers, especially on older mobile operating systems. Resolving these discrepancies required extensive cross-platform testing and refinement.
4.Balancing Simplicity with Functionality
Maintaining a simple, beginner-friendly interface without compromising the correctness of the cryptographic processes was a constant design challenge. Achieving this balance involved numerous UI/UX iterations and feedback loops from test users.
Despite these challenges, each issue was addressed through code refinement, user testing, and interface optimization, ultimately resulting in a robust, educational, and user-friendly platform.
CHAPTER 8
CONCLUSION
8.1 Summary of the Project
The Shielded Chat project is a browser based encrypted messaging tool built to illustrate the application of classical encryption methods within a modern web interface. Through the layered use the Vigenère and Polybius ciphers, the system offers users the ability to securely encode and decode messages while understanding the mechanics behind the encryption process.
Shielded Chat emphasizes education of experimentation over commercial deployment. Unlike mainstream messaging apps that prioritize seamless communication via complex cryptographic standards, this project is designed to demystify encryption for students, educators, and early learners.
The application is built using modern web development tools, ensuring cross-device compatibility, accessibility, and offline operability. Users can explore encryption logic, observe step-by-step transformations, and test the system under various inputs without the need for internet connectivity.
Although it lacks advanced features such as media sharing, real-time messaging, or multi-user networking, Shielded Chat succeeds in demonstrating the principles of layered encryption in a user-friendly and interactive environment. This makes it a valuable tool in classrooms, workshops, or self-learning contexts focused on the fundamentals of cybersecurity and cryptography.
