Which type of encryption key is mostly associated with long-term security risks?

Static encryption keys are primarily associated with long-term security risks because they are fixed keys that remain unchanged over time. When a static key is used for encryption, it can potentially become a target for attackers. If an adversary manages to obtain the key, they can decrypt any data that has been encrypted with that key, creating a prolonged exposure risk.

Additionally, the use of a static key over an extended period may lead to vulnerabilities, especially in environments where data confidentiality relies on the secrecy of that key. If the same key is used repeatedly, and if it does not change, the patterns in its use could be analyzed and exploited. This contrasts with other key types that are designed to be temporary or changeable, such as dynamic or temporary encryption keys, which mitigate this risk by regularly updating to maintain security integrity.

Thus, static encryption keys pose a greater risk in terms of long-term exposure because the same key is reused for encryption without variation, leaving it more vulnerable to unauthorized access if compromised.