Public and Private Keys

The digital ID encryption uses a system of key pairs that include a public key used to encrypt a message and a private key used to decrypt a message. The sender of a secure e-mail must have the recipient's public key to encrypt the message. When the message is received, it is decrypted using the recipient's matching private key.

Using GoldMine you can exchange encrypted e-mail messages with a contact. You must have the contact's digital ID that includes his or her public key and the contact must have your digital ID that includes your public key.

In GoldMine, you must then import the contact's Digital ID Digital signature and encryption keys sent with email messages using the contact's Edit > Record Properties > Contact Details > Digital IDs tab and import your Digital ID using your Internet E-mail Preferences > Security tab.

For example, when you send an encrypted message to a contact, it is encrypted in GoldMine using the public key the contact provided you. When he or she receives the message, it is decrypted by the contact's e-mail application using his or her private key. Conversely, when a contact sends you an encrypted message it is encrypted by the sender's e-mail application with your public key (provided earlier). When you receive the message, it is decrypted using your private key.