ISO28657

ISO/IEC 28657, also known as the *Information Technology – Security Techniques – Cryptographic Message Syntax (CMS)* standard, is an international information security standard developed by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) and the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC). Published in 2017, it defines a framework for creating, verifying, and processing cryptographic messages, ensuring data integrity, authentication, and confidentiality.

The standard builds upon earlier work, including RFC 5652, which it supersedes. It specifies the Cryptographic Message Syntax (CMS), a format for encapsulating cryptographic operations such as digital signatures, encrypted content, and authenticated data. CMS is widely used in secure communications, digital signatures, and key management systems, particularly in applications like email security (e.g., S/MIME) and code signing.

Key features of ISO/IEC 28657 include support for asymmetric encryption, symmetric encryption, and hybrid encryption schemes. It also defines structures for digital signatures, message digests, and content encryption, allowing for flexible and interoperable security implementations. The standard emphasizes compatibility with existing cryptographic practices while accommodating modern advancements in security protocols.

ISO/IEC 28657 is applicable to organizations and developers seeking standardized methods for secure message handling. It is particularly relevant in industries where data protection and authentication are critical, such as finance, healthcare, and government. By providing a structured approach to cryptographic operations, the standard helps mitigate risks associated with unauthorized access, tampering, and data breaches.