SuperMail DApp User Guide

Secure, decentralized messaging on the blockchain

Introduction

Welcome to SuperMail DApp, a decentralized messaging application built on blockchain technology. SuperMail allows you to send secure messages with optional encryption, image attachments, and flexible payment options.

Key Features

  • Decentralized: Messages are stored on the blockchain, not on centralized servers
  • Secure: Optional end-to-end encryption for your messages
  • Flexible Payments: Choose who pays the transaction fees (sender or receiver)
  • Multi-Currency: Pay with ETH or DAPP tokens
  • Rich Content: Send text messages with optional image attachments

Note: You'll need the MetaMask browser extension installed and connected to the Base L2 network to use this DApp.

Getting Started

Install MetaMask

If you haven't already, install the MetaMask browser extension. This is your wallet for interacting with blockchain applications.

Connect to Base L2 Network

Ensure your MetaMask is connected to the Base L2 network. You may need to add this network manually if it's not already in your MetaMask.

Fund Your Wallet

You'll need some ETH (or DAPP tokens if you want to use them) in your wallet to pay for transactions. Get test ETH from a faucet if you're on a testnet.

Connect to SuperMail

When you first visit the SuperMail DApp, MetaMask will prompt you to connect your wallet. Click "Connect" to authorize the connection.

Important: Never share your private key or seed phrase with anyone. SuperMail will never ask for this information.

Using SuperMail

Sending Messages

Navigate to the Send Message Tab

Click on the "Send Message" tab at the top of the application.

Enter Message Details

Fill in the message title and content in the provided fields. Both fields support markdown formatting for rich text.

Add Image (Optional)

Click the "Choose File" button to attach an image to your message. Supported formats include JPG, PNG, and GIF.

Specify Recipients

Enter the recipient's wallet address(es) in the "Receiver Addresses" field. For multiple recipients, separate addresses with commas.

Configure Message Options

Select your preferred options:

  • Encrypt Message: Password-protect your message (highly recommended for sensitive content)
  • Receiver Pays Fee: The recipient will pay the transaction fee instead of you
  • Pay with DAPP Token: Use DAPP tokens instead of ETH for transaction fees

Send the Message

Click the "Send Message" button. MetaMask will open to confirm the transaction. After confirmation, your message will be sent to the blockchain.

Tip: If you choose to encrypt your message, make sure to share the password securely with the recipient through another channel (not via SuperMail).

Reading Messages

Navigate to the Read Message Tab

Click on the "Read Message" tab at the top of the application.

Enter Message ID

Input the Message ID you received from the sender in the "Message ID" field.

Fetch the Message

Click the "Fetch Message" button. The system will retrieve the message from the blockchain.

Pay to Read (If Required)

If the message is marked as "Receiver Pays," you'll need to pay a fee to read it. Choose to pay with ETH or DAPP tokens.

Decrypt the Message (If Encrypted)

If the message is encrypted, enter the password provided by the sender to decrypt and view the content.

View Message Content

Once decrypted (if needed), the message content will be displayed, including any attached images.

Note: If you're not the intended recipient or haven't been authorized by the sender, you won't be able to read the message.

Security Features

Message Encryption

SuperMail offers optional AES-256 encryption for your messages. When enabled:

  • Your message is encrypted before being sent to the blockchain
  • Only recipients with the correct password can decrypt and read the message
  • The encryption happens client-side - the password is never stored or transmitted

Best Practice: Always use encryption for sensitive messages and share the password through a separate secure channel (e.g., in person or via encrypted chat).

Payment Security

SuperMail implements several security measures for transactions:

  • All transactions require explicit approval in MetaMask
  • Fee amounts are clearly displayed before confirmation
  • Token approvals are limited to the exact amount needed

Blockchain Security

By leveraging blockchain technology, SuperMail provides:

  • Immutable message records that can't be altered or deleted
  • Transparent verification of message authenticity
  • Decentralized storage with no single point of failure

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to send a message?

The cost depends on several factors including message length, whether you include an image, and current network conditions. Typically, text-only messages cost between 0.001 and 0.005 ETH (or equivalent in DAPP tokens). You'll see the exact fee in MetaMask before confirming the transaction.

Can I send messages to multiple recipients?

Yes, you can send messages to multiple recipients by entering their wallet addresses separated by commas in the "Receiver Addresses" field. Each recipient will receive their own copy of the message.

What happens if I lose the encryption password?

If you lose the encryption password, there is no way to recover the message content. The encryption is designed this way for security purposes. We recommend storing passwords securely using a password manager.

How do I get DAPP tokens?

DAPP tokens can be obtained through various methods depending on the network you're using. On mainnet, you might purchase them on a decentralized exchange. On testnet, you can typically get them from a faucet. Check the project documentation for specific instructions.

Why can't I read a message I received?

There are several possible reasons:

  • The message requires payment and you haven't paid yet
  • The message is encrypted and you haven't entered the correct password
  • You're not one of the intended recipients
  • There might be a network issue - try refreshing the page

Troubleshooting

Common Issues and Solutions

MetaMask Not Detected

  • Ensure MetaMask is installed and unlocked
  • Refresh the page after unlocking MetaMask
  • Check that you're not in "Private Browsing" mode

Transaction Fails

  • Check that you have enough ETH or DAPP tokens for the transaction
  • Ensure you're on the correct network (Base L2)
  • Try increasing the gas limit if the transaction is stuck

Can't Read Message

  • Verify you have the correct Message ID
  • Check if you need to pay to read the message
  • Confirm you're using the correct decryption password

If you encounter persistent issues, please contact support with details of the problem and any error messages you received.

Support and Resources

Need Help?

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Additional Resources