On July 22, 2020, NIST announced seven finalists ("first track"), as well as eight alternate algorithms ("second track"). The first track contains the algorithms which appear to have the most promise, and will be considered for standardization at the end of the third round. Algorithms in the second track could still become part of the standard, after the third round ends. NIST expects some of the alternate candidates to be considered in a fourth round. NIST also suggests it may re-open the signature category for new schemes proposals in the future. On June 7–9, 2021, NIST conducted the third PQC standardization conference, virtually. The conference included candidates' updates and discussions on implementations, on performances, and on security issues of the candidates. A small amount of focus was spent on intellectual property concerns. Finalists Alternate candidates Intellectual property concerns After NIST's announcement regarding the finalists and the alternate candidates, various intellectual property concerns were voiced, notably surrounding lattice-based schemes such as Kyber and NewHope. NIST holds signed statements from submitting groups clearing any legal claims, but there is still a concern that third parties could raise claims. NIST claims that they will take such considerations into account while picking the winning algorithms. Round three submissions published attacks Rainbow: by Ward Beullens on a classical computer Adaptations During this round, some candidates have shown to be vulnerable to some attack vectors. It forces these candidates to adapt accordingly: CRYSTAL-Kyber and SABER may change the nested hashes used in their proposals in order for their security claims to hold. FALCON side channel attack by . A masking may be added in order to resist the attack. This adaptation affects performance and should be considered while standardizing. Selected Algorithms 2022 On July 5, 2022, NIST announced the first group of winners from its six-year competition. Round four On July 5, 2022, NIST announced four candidates for PQC Standardization Round 4. Round four submissions published attacks SIKE: by Wouter Castryck and Thomas Decru on a classical computer See also Advanced Encryption Standard process CAESAR Competition – Competition to design authenticated encryption schemes NIST hash function competition References External links NIST's official Website on the standardization process Post-quantum cryptography website by djb Cryptography standards Cryptography contests Post-quantum cryptography