Paper 2023/1107

Verifiable Timed Proxy Signatures and Multi-signatures

Abstract

Verifiable timed commitments serve as cryptographic tools that enable the binding of information to specific time intervals. By integrating these commitments into signature schemes, secure and tamper-evident digital signatures can be generated, ensuring the integrity of time-sensitive mechanisms. This article delves into the concept of verifiable timed commitments and explores their efficient applications in digital signature constructions. Specifically, it focuses on two important signature schemes: proxy signatures and multi-signatures. The idea of the timed proxy signature is to enable the delegation of signing rights for a specified period, allowing designated entities to sign messages on behalf of the original signer. On the other hand, multi-signatures allow multiple parties to collectively generate a single signature, ensuring enhanced security and accountability. The article presents an in-depth analysis of the underlying mechanisms, discussing their properties, strengths, and computational complexity. Through this exploration, the article aims to shed light on the potential of verifiable timed commitments and inspire further research in this evolving field of cryptography.