SPHINCS+

Definition ∞ SPHINCS+ is a stateless, hash-based digital signature scheme selected by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) as a standard for post-quantum cryptography. Its security relies solely on the properties of cryptographic hash functions, making it resistant to attacks from quantum computers. SPHINCS+ offers a high level of security without requiring complex mathematical assumptions, though it generates larger signatures and keys compared to some other schemes. It represents a robust solution for long-term digital signature security.
Context ∞ News about SPHINCS+ often accompanies reports on the global initiative to prepare digital infrastructure for the quantum computing era. Discussions frequently focus on its strong security guarantees and its suitability for applications where long-term security is paramount, despite its larger signature sizes. A critical future development involves the practical implementation and optimization of SPHINCS+ in various security protocols, including those safeguarding digital assets and blockchain transactions, to ensure resilience against future quantum threats.