Mr. Sanborn provided him with a key for deciphering the messages. So now, Mr. Sanborn, at 74, is giving the world another shot: the word NORTHEAST, at positions 26 through 34. Many felt they had solved the puzzle, and wanted to check with Mr. Sanborn. Mr. Sanborn has set up systems to allow people to check their proposed solutions without having to contact him directly. The full mystery of Kryptos could involve the broader assemblage of pieces and their relationships to each other.

Source: New York Times January 29, 2020 10:00 UTC