GoFiler's transmission process is very simple. When you press the File Live or File Test button in GoFiler, the application submits your filing via the SEC web portal in the same manner as if you had manually submitted the filing using Internet Explorer. It is also important to note that the SEC does not allow non-secure transmissions.
GoFiler uses the same Windows (WinInet) interface that Internet Explorer uses. The transmission is secured using the SEC’s SSL (Secure Socket Layer) certificate, which is validated by Windows. The submission is performed via HTTPS (the secure version of HTTP used for banking and other applications that require a high level of security). When certificates are issued by larger firms, such as VeriSign or Microsoft, they are automatically validated by Windows through that third party. If a “trusted” third party is not known, then Windows (via Internet Explorer) will ask the user about the certificate. The SEC uses DigiCert, Inc. and therefore GoFiler's communications use that certificate for its transmissions.
When connected to the SEC, the link is automatically secured using RSA with public/private keys. There is a secure interchange to verify the communicators and then a key is sent to the SEC. This key will then be used to encrypt the actual data being transmitted with a different encryption standard, such as AES.
This process is extremely secure. GoFiler verifies that the receiver of the transmission is the SEC and then encrypts your filing with a key only the SEC knows. Transmissions from GoFiler, including Section 16 transmissions, do not pass through a third-party server. They are transmitted directly to the SEC. There is no need to worry about the privacy of your transmissions when using GoFiler.
GoFiler does support the method of direct dialing the SEC for a private intranet, if you want to avoid transmitting your filings across the Internet entirely. This method requires a modem and the computer must be set up to dial-connect. However, this method of transmitting filings is slower.
