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A proposed 256-bit hash function later subject to cryptanalysis and not adopted for standard use.
DESCRIPTION
FORK-256 is a 256-bit cryptographic hash function introduced in the mid-2000s. Subsequent cryptanalysis identified weaknesses, reducing confidence in its collision resistance. As a result, it saw no significant adoption and is not recommended for new systems. Practitioners should use standardized, well-analyzed hashes such as SHA-256 or SHA-3. FORK-256 remains a case study in the importance of extensive peer review.
ALTERNATIVE DEFINITIONS
IACR ePrint
Cryptanalytic results on FORK-256 show structural weaknesses affecting its security claims.
Highlights cryptanalysis impact; paraphrased due to offline generation.
IACR ePrint
FORK-256 was proposed as a new 256-bit hash function with an emphasis on security and efficiency.
Describes the proposal’s goals; paraphrased due to offline generation.
RELATED TERMS
Cryptographic Hash Function Collision Attack Preimage Resistance RIPEMD-160 Tiger Whirlpool Keccak BLAKE Skein
COMPETING TERMS
KNOWLEDGE AREAS
Data Security Software Engineering
TARGET AUDIENCE
Security Architect Cybersecurity Engineer Software Developer IT Auditor
EXTERNAL SOURCES
- Wikipedia - FORK-256
- IACR ePrint - Original FORK-256 proposal.
- IACR ePrint - Cryptanalysis of FORK-256.
TOP QUESTIONS
Why is FORK-256 not recommended today?
Subsequent cryptanalysis reduced confidence in its security, leading the community to prefer standardized algorithms like SHA-256 and SHA-3.
Category: Risks
What security properties did FORK-256 aim for?
It targeted collision, preimage, and second-preimage resistance at 256-bit strength, aligning with contemporary security expectations.
Category: Definition
Is there any notable deployment of FORK-256?
No significant deployments are known; it did not achieve standardization or widespread use.
Category: Relevancy
What is a safer alternative to FORK-256?
Use NIST-standardized SHA-256 or SHA-3 (Keccak) for integrity and signatures.
Category: Alternatives
What lesson does FORK-256 teach?
Even promising designs require extensive peer review; cryptanalysis can uncover weaknesses post-publication.
Category: Lesson
How did FORK-256 compare in performance?
It targeted efficiency, but security concerns overshadowed performance and prevented adoption.
Category: Performance
What is the biggest misunderstanding about FORK-256?
That any 256-bit output guarantees security; structural design matters as much as output size.
Category: Misunderstanding
When was FORK-256 introduced?
It was proposed in the mid-2000s in academic cryptographic literature.
Category: Background
Who should care about FORK-256 today?
Primarily cryptographers and security researchers studying hash function design and cryptanalysis history.
Category: Audience