Futuristic digital lock and encryption key glowing in blue neon, representing PGP encryption and privacy in a cyber environment

How to Create and Use a PGP Key

Protect your privacy and security on TorZon Market with PGP encryption. Learn how to generate, use, and manage your PGP key for secure communication and transactions.

What is PGP?

Digital envelope with padlock and cryptographic symbols, representing secure PGP encrypted email and messages

Pretty Good Privacy (PGP)

PGP stands for Pretty Good Privacy . It is a widely used encryption program that provides cryptographic privacy and authentication for data communication. PGP is used for signing, encrypting, and decrypting texts, emails, files, and more, to increase the security of communications.

PGP uses a combination of strong public-key and symmetric-key cryptography to secure messages. Each user has a public key (shared with others) and a private key (kept secret). Messages encrypted with your public key can only be decrypted with your private key.

  • Encrypt messages so only the intended recipient can read them
  • Digitally sign messages to prove authenticity
  • Verify the identity of vendors and market staff

Why Use PGP on TorZon Market?

Your Security is Our Priority

  • Confidentiality: PGP ensures that only you and the intended recipient can read your messages, even if intercepted.
  • Authentication: Digital signatures verify that messages are genuinely from the sender and have not been tampered with.
  • Anonymity: PGP helps protect your identity and personal information on the darknet.
  • Required for Disputes: PGP is mandatory for resolving disputes and verifying staff messages on TorZon Market.
Anonymous user silhouette with digital shield and encrypted message bubbles, symbolizing privacy and security on darknet markets

How to Create a PGP Key

Follow these steps to generate your own PGP key pair. You can use free, open-source tools on Windows, macOS, or Linux.

Step-by-Step Guide (Linux/macOS/Windows with GnuPG)

  1. Install GnuPG:
    • Linux: sudo apt install gnupg
    • macOS: brew install gnupg
    • Windows: Download Gpg4win
  2. Generate Your Key Pair:
    gpg --full-generate-key
    Choose RSA and RSA , key size 4096 bits, and set an expiration date (recommended: 1-2 years). Use a pseudonym and a strong passphrase.
  3. List Your Keys:
    gpg --list-keys
  4. Export Your Public Key:
    gpg --armor --export [email protected]
    Copy the output and add it to your TorZon profile.
  5. Backup Your Private Key:
    gpg --armor --export-secret-keys [email protected] > my-private-key.asc
    Store this file securely and never share it with anyone.

Recommended PGP Tools

Laptop screen showing PGP key generation interface, with cryptographic keys and secure passphrase input fields

Using PGP on TorZon Market

PGP is essential for secure communication, order details, and dispute resolution on TorZon Market. Here’s how you’ll use it:

Where PGP is Used

  • Account Registration: Add your public PGP key to your profile for secure messaging and password recovery.
  • Order Details: Vendors may require you to encrypt your shipping address or order notes with their public key.
  • Private Messaging: All sensitive messages between buyers, vendors, and staff should be PGP encrypted.
  • Dispute Resolution: Staff will only communicate using signed PGP messages. Always verify signatures.

How to Encrypt & Decrypt Messages

  1. Encrypt a Message:
    gpg --armor --encrypt --recipient "Vendor Name" message.txt
    Or paste the vendor’s public key into your PGP tool and encrypt your message.
  2. Decrypt a Message:
    gpg --decrypt encrypted_message.asc
    Enter your passphrase when prompted.
  3. Verify a Signature:
    gpg --verify signed_message.asc
    Always verify staff and vendor signatures before trusting messages.

Security Tips

  • Never share your private key or passphrase with anyone.
  • Always verify the PGP key fingerprint of vendors and staff.
  • Use a strong, unique passphrase for your PGP key.
  • Backup your private key securely (offline, encrypted storage).
  • Never trust unsigned or unverified messages.
Digital hand holding a glowing encryption key, with shield and lock icons, symbolizing secure PGP key management

PGP Key FAQ

Is PGP required on TorZon Market?

Yes. PGP is mandatory for secure communication, order details, and dispute resolution. Without a PGP key, you cannot fully use all features of TorZon Market.

Can I use the same PGP key on other markets?

For maximum security, it is recommended to use a unique PGP key for each market or service. This limits the risk if one key is ever compromised.

What if I lose my private key?

If you lose your private key or forget your passphrase, you will not be able to decrypt messages or prove your identity. Always keep secure backups in encrypted, offline storage.

How do I verify a vendor or staff PGP key?

Always check the official TorZon Market PGP key list and verify the fingerprint before sending any sensitive information. Never trust keys sent via private messages.