keycontrol

Key control refers to the processes, policies, and technologies used to manage cryptographic keys throughout their lifecycle. The aim is to protect keys from loss, theft, unauthorized access, and misuse while enabling authorized use for protecting data and communications.

Digital key control involves key management systems (KMS), often supported by hardware security modules (HSMs). Key lifecycle stages include generation, storage, distribution, rotation, revocation, and destruction. Key policies define ownership, access control, permissible algorithms and key sizes, and usage constraints. Access is typically restricted by role-based access control, the principle of least privilege, and multi-factor authentication. Auditing and logging track key usage and changes to support accountability and compliance.

Types of keys include symmetric keys, used for encryption and decryption, and asymmetric key pairs, used for data encryption, digital signatures, and key exchange. Key hierarchies may separate master keys from data keys, enabling key rotation without re-encrypting all data. Key escrow and recovery mechanisms may be used to recover keys in emergencies, depending on policy and risk considerations.

Physical key control addresses access to facilities and assets. Practices include controlled issuance and return of physical keys, dual custody, key cabinets or safes, periodic reconciliation, and audit trails. Integrated systems can track key movements and tie physical access to digital authentication, improving traceability.

Governance and standards: organizations implement key control policies, designate roles such as key owner, custodian, and administrator, and conduct regular audits. Standards from bodies like NIST, ISO/IEC, and PCI-DSS influence key management requirements, shaping controls around key generation, storage, distribution, and destruction.