Definition
Key escrow refers to a cryptographic key exchange protocol in which a third party stores security keys in escrow. The keys are used to decrypt encrypted data. When they are held in escrow, an authorized third party may access them under certain circumstances.
However, this arrangement is controversial because a third party handles the keys. Also, there are potential vulnerabilities in the key escrow operations.
The Risks of Key Escrow
- Privacy issues: Encryption improves security and privacy. However, the key escrow arrangement introduces a third party, which raises privacy concerns.
- Security issues: Despite a trusted third party being responsible for holding the cryptographic keys, the storage process may present security vulnerabilities.
- Government surveillance: Authorities may request access to the cryptographic in escrow, which may cause concerns about the government using it as a surveillance method.
Types of Key Escrow Systems
- Hardware key escrow: It involves storing and managing the encryption keys on physical devices. These devices usually have multiple security layers, providing high-level security for the keys. However, hardware key escrow is costly to configure and maintain and poses a significant risk of hardware failures.
- Software key escrow: It uses software applications to store and manage encryption keys. The advantage of a software key escrow is that it is easier to implement and maintain.
- Cloud-based key escrow: It entails storing and managing cryptographic keys on a cloud-based platform. It’s highly scalable because cloud services can be adjusted to meet changing demands.