This Standard defines methods for digital signature (signature) generation and verification for the protection of messages and data using the Elliptic Curve Digital Signature Algorithm (ECDSA). ECDSA is the elliptic curve analogue of the Digital Signature Algorithm (ANS X9.30). The ECDSA shall be used in conjunction with an Approved hash function, as specified in the X9 Registry Item 00003, Secure Hash Standard (SHS). This ECDSA Standard provides methods and criteria for the generation of public and private keys that are required by the ECDSA and the procedural controls required for the secure use of the algorithm with these keys.