The ALG must use a FIPS-validated cryptographic module to provision digital signatures.

FIPS 140-2/140-3 precludes the use of invalidated cryptography for the cryptographic protection of sensitive or valuable data within federal systems. Unvalidated cryptography is viewed by NIST as providing no protection to the information or data. In effect, the data would be considered unprotected plain text. If the agency specifies that the information or data be cryptographically protected, then FIPS 140-2/140-3 is applicable. In essence, if cryptography is required, it must be validated. Cryptographic modules that have been approved for classified use may be used in lieu of modules that have been validated against the FIPS 140-2/140-3 standard.

The cryptographic module used must have at least one validated digital signature function. This validated hashing algorithm must be used to generate digital signatures for all cryptographic security function within the product being evaluated. Federal Information Processing Standard (FIPS) 186-4, Digital Signature Standard (DSS), specifies three NIST-approved algorithms: DSA, RSA, and ECDSA. These algorithms are used to generate and verify digital signatures in conjunction with an approved hash function.

This requirement also applies to Zero Trust initiatives.

Determine if the ALG use a FIPS-validated cryptographic module to provision digital signatures.

If the ALG does not use a FIPS-validated cryptographic module to provision digital signatures, this is a finding.

Configure the ALG to use a FIPS-validated cryptographic module to provision digital signatures.