Cryptographyintermediate1 min read

Private Key

N/A

私钥

Private Key · N/A · 私钥 · PRYE-vit kee · secret key · private cryptographic key · Cryptography · secrets · asymmetric · securityCryptographysecret key private cryptographic key

/PRYE-vit kee/

Also known as: secret key, private cryptographic key

Last updated August 9, 2026

Definition

A private key is the secret half of an asymmetric key pair. Anyone who has it can decrypt messages meant for you or forge your signatures — keep it protected.

Real-World Example

Never email your private key; store it encrypted and use a passphrase where possible.

References

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