Key that has not been encrypted in a system approved by the National Security Agency (NSA) for key encryption or encrypted key in the presence of its associated key encryption key (KEK) or transfer key encryption key (TrKEK). Encrypted key in the associated same fill device as its KEK or TrKEK is considered unencrypted. (Unencrypted key is also known as RED key). Source: CNSSI No. 4005 (COMSEC)
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Key that has not been encrypted in a system approved by the National Security Agency (NSA) for key encryption or encrypted key in the presence of its associated key encryption key (KEK) or transfer key encryption key (TrKEK). Encrypted key in the associated same fill device as its KEK or TrKEK is considered unencrypted. (Unencrypted key is also known as RED key). Source: CNSSI No. 4005 (COMSEC)
Cite this term
Election Security Glossary. (2026). Unencrypted Key. In Election Security Glossary. Retrieved August 21, 2026, from https://electionsecurityglossary.com/glossary/unencrypted-key
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