The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) is seeking public feedback on updates to its standards for securely sharing encryption keys, specifically Special Publications 800-56A, 800-56B, and 800-56C. The main goal is to update SP 800-56C so it can work with new quantum-proof encryption tools, such as those defined in FIPS 203. These changes are part of a broader effort to ensure digital security remains safe even as quantum computers become more powerful.
The review is currently in progress, with a deadline for public comments set for January 31, 2025. Once finalized, these standards will help organizations move toward hybrid systems that combine current security methods with new post-quantum technologies. This ensures long-term data protection against future threats while keeping systems compatible with existing infrastructure.
Keywords: NIST SP 800-56, quantum-resistant KEMs, hybrid key-establishment
