Menu
GnuPG uses public-key cryptography so that users may communicate securely. In a public-key system, each user has a pair of keys consisting of a private key and a public key. A user's private key is kept secret; it need never be revealed. The public key may be given to anyone with whom the user wants to communicate.
To receive an encrypted file that only you can open, you first need to create a key pair and then share your public key. Creating the key pair is similar to creating ssh keys in that you choose a key size, specify an identifier, and set a passphrase.
GnuPG also supports symmetric encryption algorithms. By default, GnuPG uses the AES symmetrical algorithm since version 2.1, CAST5 was used in earlier versions. GnuPG does not use patented or otherwise restricted software or algorithms.
I had the same issue after copying my key pair from one machine to another. The solution for me was the set the trust level of the keys:
gpg --edit-key <KEY_ID>
gpg> trust
You will be asked to select the trust level from the following:
1 = I don't know or won't say
2 = I do NOT trust
3 = I trust marginally
4 = I trust fully
5 = I trust ultimately
m = back to the main menu
I selected 5 since I created the key so of course I trust it ultimately :). It will ask you to confirm your decision:
Your decision? 5
Do you really want to set this key to ultimate trust? (y/N) y
After confirming, quit with:
gpg> quit
You should then be able to encrypt using that key.
If you love us? You can donate to us via Paypal or buy me a coffee so we can maintain and grow! Thank you!
Donate Us With