Given where you're up to in the field, you probably already know about this, but ...
You could try downloading a copy of PGP and reading the included documentation. It not only tells you how to use the prog, but also describes what the prog's author, Phil Zimmermann, went through because certain agencies of a certain large, influential Western government felt threatened by his efforts. There are also a number of references that may be worth pursuing.
It may not provide answers, but you may get some insight.
AA