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linuxbashubuntugnupgbrute-force

Bruteforce GPG passphrase using script


I have forgotten my passphrase for my gpg key on linux. Can someone please help me write a simple script to use bruteforce to crack the key? I remember some of the words which MIGHT be in the passphrase, so hopefully, it will not take long for my computer to bruteforce it.

All is not lost if I can't recover the passphrase, it just means I will not be able to work on my project for the next 10 days until I get back to work to get another copy of the files, but this time with a new key for which I will remember to passphrase.

However, it will be nice to be able to work on my project in these 10 days.


Solution

  • 1) The script won't be simple, at least how you envisage "simple."

    2) It will take a long time - that's the point of using pass phrases over simple passwords. Taking the time to write such a script, incorporating your words which may or may not be in the phrase plus a stab at iterating will probably take over ten days.

    3) You probably will forget the next passphrase too.

    4) Ooops!

    Sorry dude, time to start a new project (at least to while away the next ten days - I suggest a passphrase cracker as an ideal distraction.)

    Merry Christmas!

    -Oisin