When is the private key generated for encrypted forms?

I have read your help documents, but it doesn't seem to answer my question. I already have set a form to be encrypted but where do I generate the key?

The key file should have been generated when the encryption was applied.  The following guide shows when the key is generated:

https://www.jotform.com/help/344-Encrypted-Forms-and-How-to-Use-Them

It sure was, but it won't let me in and I can't find the key. Also, I'm
sharing that form with another user - and they need access as well.
Please advise.
...

Without the private key it is impossible to access your encrypted submissions.

So have another look on your computer for the private key. It is usually called "jotform.key" and usually is in your Downloads folder. If its not there check your Documents folder. If its not there check your trash can. Its important to find the key if you want to access the encrypted data.

If you cannot find your key you have two options:

#1. You can disable encryption for your forms. All new submissions will be unencrypted. However you will not be able to access your previously encrypted submissions.

#2. Create a new key pair. All new submissions will be encrypted. However you will not be able to access your previously encrypted submissions.

 

 

Are existing key is no longer available.
I don't want to disable encryption at any point - even to establish a new
key. I should be able to generate a new key and view all past submissions
too - if not, your system is flawed.
Scott
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The whole point of using encryption is that nobody should be able to decrypt the data, unless they have a private key. We must ensure that this encrypted data is secure. Because it could be sensitive or important. We cant provide a way to bypass the encryption. 

As such, we do not keep copies of private keys on our servers.

Appologies for the inconvenience.

Of course, but allowing the owner of the data to generate a key - without
having to REGENERATE and lose access - is standard practice. I need to get
the key to my own data, without losing access. Please advise.
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We do not store copies of private keys. It is not possible for us to unencrypt your data.

You would need to search your computer thoroughly for the key. It is usually called "jotform.key". Possible locations you need to search are:-

- Downloads Folder

- Documents Folder

- Trash Folder

Sorry for the inconvenience

I'm moving to a different service - will no longer be using your service
or recommending your service. Have had too many issues. Not to mention the
daily spam emails I get that say my jotform password has changed.
...

We are very sorry to hear that.  The spam emails are being dealt with and are definitely an unfortunate occurrence, they should be taken care of quite soon if not already.

As for the encryption issue, the reason we do not keep a copy of your key is to ensure the utmost security for the data.  If we have access to the key or keep any logs of the encrypted data, it prevents users from having 100% control of the data as we would have access.