Multivariate Quadratic Signatures in the NIST Process: A Survey and Comparative Analysis

초록

Classical digital signature schemes such as RSA and ECDSA are threatened by the development of quantum computers, prompting the need for post-quantum cryptogra phy (PQC). Among the various PQC candidates, multivariate quadratic (MQ) signature schemes continue to attract attention due to their small signature size and efficient signing and verification. This paper presents a comprehensive comparative study of four MQ based signature schemes — UOV, MAYO, QR-UOV, and SNOVA — which are candidates in the second round of the NIST additional digital signature standardization process. We review their key generation, signing, and verification procedures, and summarize their pro posed parameter sets, analyzing the impact on key size, signature size, and performance. Furthermore, we investigate each scheme’s resistance to known attacks (e.g., MinRank, Kipnis-Shamir, and intersection attacks). This work aims to provide a clear and sys tematic overview of MQ-based signature schemes, supporting ongoing efforts toward the development and standardization of secure and efficient post-quantum digital signature schemes.