In 2021, NIST focused on advancing cybersecurity and privacy standards, with a particular emphasis on preparing for emerging threats and technologies. The agency planned to update key frameworks like the Cybersecurity Framework (CSF) and Privacy Framework (PF), and integrate them with risk management and supply chain security practices. NIST also aimed to release a post-quantum cryptography standard by 2022, following a competition to select quantum-resistant algorithms. Other priorities included improving identity and access management, promoting secure IPv6-only networks, and advancing cybersecurity education through the National Initiative for Cybersecurity Education (NICE).
NIST also worked on enhancing supply chain risk management practices, updating security guidelines, and expanding the use of cryptographic standards that can withstand quantum computing threats. The agency planned to release new guidance for IoT cybersecurity, support the development of cybersecurity metrics, and demonstrate practical implementations of Zero Trust and 5G security. These efforts were part of a broader strategy to help organizations better manage cybersecurity risks and adapt to the evolving digital landscape.
Source: https://www.nist.gov/blogs/cybersecurity-insights/2021-whats-ahead-nist-cybersecurity-and-privacy
Keywords: post-quantum cryptography, quantum-resistant cryptography, lightweight cryptographic algorithms
