Match the tool to the job
NIST finalized ML-KEM, ML-DSA and SLH-DSA in August 2024. ML-KEM establishes shared secrets; ML-DSA and SLH-DSA are digital signature schemes. Key establishment is not a substitute for transaction authorization.
Selected versus standardized
Falcon was selected, but NIST lists its FIPS 206 as in development. Record exact status and parameters rather than treating all references to NIST as equivalent.
Beyond the algorithm
Implementation, key custody, upgrades and dependencies determine practical protection. Standardization provides a foundation, not a universal security badge.