FIPS 140-3: Minimum Security Requirements for Crypotgraphic Module

When cryptographic modules fail to protect sensitive data, it can lead to data breaches, compliance issues, and system compromise. Weak encryption methods, poor key handling, or insecure module design are common causes of such failures. Organizations that depend on encryption need clear and tested rules to avoid these risks.

FIPS 140-3 provides a set of minimum security requirements that guide how cryptographic modules should be designed, implemented, and validated. It covers key areas like encryption strength, access control, physical security, and module testing. This article explains what FIPS 140-3 is, why it matters, and how it ensures the secure use of cryptographic modules.

What is FIPS 140-3?

FIPS 140-3 is a security standard that defines how cryptographic modules should be built and tested to protect sensitive data. It is published by the National Institute of Standards and Technology and is the official update to the earlier FIPS 140-2 standard.

Why FIPS 140-3 Matters for Cryptographic Modules

1. Role in Data Protection

FIPS 140-3 sets clear rules for how cryptographic modules must work to protect data using encryption. It ensures that the modules handle keys, authentication, and encryption operations in a way that prevents unauthorized access and data leaks.

2. Importance for Government and Regulated Industries

Government agencies and industries like healthcare and finance often deal with sensitive information. FIPS 140-3 helps them use cryptographic tools that meet strict security standards, making sure data is protected according to legal and regulatory expectations.

3. Link to Cybersecurity Compliance Standards

FIPS 140-3 supports several cybersecurity compliance frameworks, such as Cybersecurity Compliance and NIST 800-53. These frameworks require the use of validated cryptographic modules to meet data protection goals and reduce the risk of security violations.

Core Requirements of FIPS 140-3 for Cryptographic Modules

1. Cryptographic Module Specification

This requirement defines what the cryptographic module includes. It must list all hardware, software, and interfaces that are part of the module. It must also explain how data moves in and out of the module.

2. Roles, Services, and Authentication

The module must define different roles, like user or administrator. Each role is allowed to perform specific services. The module must check and confirm the identity of the person or system before allowing access to those services.

3. Finite State Model

The finite state model shows the different states of the module, such as power on, idle, error, or self-test. The module must clearly describe how it moves from one state to another and what each state does.

4. Physical Security

If the module includes hardware, it must be protected against physical tampering. It must use physical barriers or sensors to detect and respond to attempts to break into the device.

5. Operational Environment

If the module runs on an operating system, the operating system must be protected. The module must control access to the system and prevent unauthorized changes or code from running inside the module.

6. Cryptographic Key Management

The module must generate, store, distribute, and destroy cryptographic keys in a secure way. It must use approved methods to handle both encryption key management and private and public keys. If the module supports remote access tools like SSH, it must also include secure SSH key management practices. The module must prevent keys from being accessed or changed by unauthorized users.

7. EMI/EMC Protection

The module must limit electromagnetic interference and must work safely in the presence of other electronic signals. It must meet the federal standards for electromagnetic compatibility.

8. Self-Tests

The module must run tests to check its own functions. These tests must run when the module starts and during normal operation. If a test fails, the module must stop working to avoid unsafe behavior.

9. Design Assurance

The module must provide documentation that proves it was designed and built correctly. This includes details like source code control, version tracking, and proper testing. If the module uses digital certificates for identity or encryption, it must manage and validate X.509 certificates as part of its design assurance.

10. Mitigation of Other Attacks

If the module claims to protect against special types of attacks, it must show how it does that. This may include protections against timing attacks, fault attacks, or other known risks.

FIPS 140-3 Security Levels Explained

1. Level 1 – Basic Security

This level requires that the cryptographic module use approved encryption algorithms. It does not require special hardware or strong access control. This level is usually used in general-purpose software systems.

2. Level 2 – Role-Based Control

This level adds access control based on roles. The module must check if the user has a valid role before allowing access to any service. It may also include seals or locks to show if the device has been opened.

3. Level 3 – Identity-Based Authentication

This level requires the module to confirm the exact identity of the user, not just the role. It also needs stronger physical barriers to stop direct access to keys or internal parts.

4. Level 4 – Highest Physical Protection

This level gives the strongest protection. The module must be able to detect and respond to any physical attempt to break it. It must also protect data if the device is exposed to high temperatures or voltage changes.

FIPS 140-3 vs FIPS 140-2: Key Differences

FIPS 140-3 is the updated version of FIPS 140-2. Both define security requirements for cryptographic modules, but FIPS 140-3 aligns with international standards. FIPS 140-3 is based on ISO/IEC 19790, while FIPS 140-2 was not.

FIPS 140-3 adds new testing guidelines, stricter documentation rules, and more detailed requirements for module interfaces and non-invasive attacks. It also includes updates for how physical security and software environments must be handled.

FIPS 140-3 does not change the number of security levels, but it gives more precise instructions for meeting each level. It also separates the testing process into functional and assurance requirements.

FIPS 140-3 Validation and Compliance Process

1. Testing by Accredited Labs

Before a cryptographic module can be approved, it must be tested by an independent lab. The lab must be accredited under the Cryptographic Module Validation Program. The lab checks if the module meets all the requirements of FIPS 140-3.

2. Certification by NIST

After testing is complete, the lab sends the test results to the National Institute of Standards and Technology. NIST reviews the results and, if everything meets the standard, issues a certificate that confirms the module is FIPS 140-3 validated.

Who Needs to Follow FIPS 140-3?

1. Federal Agencies

All United States federal agencies that use cryptographic modules to protect sensitive data must follow FIPS 140-3. This includes any system that handles government information.

2: Contractors and Vendors

Companies that sell products or services to federal agencies must also follow FIPS 140-3. Their cryptographic modules must be validated to meet government security requirements.

Try SSH Solutions That Support FIPS 140-3 Compliance

FIPS 140-3 is a U.S. government standard for validating the security of cryptographic modules. If your organization handles sensitive data or must meet compliance requirements, using FIPS 140-3 validated solutions is necessary. SSH offers secure access solutions that are aligned with FIPS 140-3. These solutions use cryptographic modules that follow strict government security rules.

SSH helps secure access to remote systems, encrypted data transfers, and identity-based access without passwords. Their solutions include secure tunneling, privileged access management, and file transfers. SSH also supports FIPS-validated cryptography modules where required, making them a suitable choice for government and regulated industries.

If your organization wants to replace outdated tools or meet compliance rules, SSH solutions provide the right technical foundation. These tools are built to reduce risk, meet strict standards, and simplify secure operations.

Get a Demo or Trial of any SSH solution to explore how it fits your compliance needs.

FAQ

1. What is FIPS 140-3, and how does it differ from FIPS 140-2?

FIPS 140-3 is the updated version of FIPS 140-2. It follows international standards and includes stricter testing, better documentation rules, and more detailed security requirements.

2. What are the security levels defined in FIPS 140-3?

FIPS 140-3 has four levels:

Level 1: Basic security

Level 2: Role-based access

Level 3: Identity-based access with stronger protection

Level 4: Strongest physical and environmental protection

3. Who needs to comply with FIPS 140-3 standards?

All U.S. federal agencies and companies that work with them must use cryptographic modules that meet FIPS 140-3.

4. What is the validation process for FIPS 140-3 compliance?

The module is tested by an accredited lab. Then NIST reviews the results and issues a validation certificate if the module meets all FIPS 140-3 rules.

5. How does FIPS 140-3 impact cryptographic key management?

FIPS 140-3 requires secure generation, storage, and destruction of keys. It also ensures that private and public keys are protected from unauthorized access.