Abstract: Automated secure document and text communication. Secure messages using metadata to transmit hidden encryption keys. Cloud-based collaboration on always-encrypted documents and metadata; cloud-based collaboration on documents and metadata using virtual machines. Maintaining a distributed log for message path tracing, coupled to the message and securely encrypted, even when the message is securely encrypted. Secure message communication over a multi-hop path, that can alter encryption at each hop, adjust security measures at each hop, and include and log biometric sensors at each hop. Secure message communication, using media that can be manipulated by cameras, fax machines, photocopiers, printers, scanners, smart phones, or variants thereof. Free and substantially noiseless conversion of messages between digital and physical form. Secure message communication using multi-media to ensure non-interception and lack of machine readability if intercepted.