UNIX for Dummies Questions & Answers

Hi,
I have imported the details given by my friend using
gpg --import <file>

Now i am using the encryption technique with my friend's key in the following way:

gpg --output out.pgp --batch --encrypt --recipient "FRIEND_KEY" test

and i am getting the follwoing error:

Code:

gpg: 421E287E: There is no indication that this key really belongs to the owner

So my doubt is , can i use the key generated by a different person ?

I tried to create a key of my own and I am able to encrypt and decrypt files with that key. But not able to do with my friend's key. What to do be done to use my friend's key in my login.

IIRC, after importing the key, you have to sign it:

Code:

gpg --edit-key me@somewhere.org

And yes, you can use the key of your friend as it will be encrypted with his key as recipient, which you did correct.

i gave gpg--edit-key "FriendKey" and then gave sign. So now i am able to encrypt files using the FriendKey. But not able to decrypt the files. What to be done for that ??

I am getting the following eeror:
gpg: decryption failed: secret key not available

Your friend must have your pub key in his keyring and when encrypting used your keyname as address/recipient.
When that was all correct, it should ask you for your passphrase, iirc.

Can you please explain how to do that ???