One-Shot Signatures

Definition ∞ One-Shot Signatures are cryptographic signature schemes designed to be used securely only once. These signatures offer strong security guarantees but become insecure if the same private key is used to sign multiple messages. They are often simpler and more computationally efficient than reusable signature schemes, making them suitable for specific applications where single-use is guaranteed. Lamport signatures are a classic example of this type of cryptographic primitive.
Context ∞ One-Shot Signatures are primarily discussed in the context of post-quantum cryptography and specialized privacy protocols, where their efficiency can be advantageous. The main challenge involves ensuring strict adherence to the single-use constraint to maintain security. Future developments focus on integrating these schemes into larger, more complex cryptographic systems that require high security against future computational advancements.