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Export of cryptography
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<p>The export of cryptography is the transfer from one country to another of devices and technology related to <a href="/facts/Cryptography/e94PEVau">cryptography</a>. </p><p>In the early days of the <a href="/facts/Cold_War/spJdJQ3q">Cold War</a>, the United States and its allies developed an elaborate series of export control regulations designed to prevent a wide range of Western technology from falling into the hands of others, particularly the <a href="/facts/Eastern_bloc/12f32hA7">Eastern bloc</a>. All export of technology classed as 'critical' required a license. <a href="/facts/CoCom/qHYhGQX7">CoCom</a> was organized to coordinate Western export controls. </p><p>Many countries, notably those participating in the <a href="/facts/Wassenaar_Arrangement/ClsngcyP">Wassenaar Arrangement</a>, introduced restrictions. The Wassenaar restrictions were largely loosened in the late 2010s. </p>