The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) has announced that it has finally finalised the principal set of encryption algorithms designed to withstand cyberattacks from a quantum computer. This could potentially overhaul the encryption foundations that organisations have relied upon for decades and force them to completely rethink their approach to digital security.
Post-quantum cryptography (PQC) is a field of cryptography dedicated to creating and analysing cryptographic algorithms that derive their security from mathematical problems considered difficult for both classical and quantum computers. It offers a low-cost, practical path to maintaining the properties of secure communications.
However, according to Thales, the transition to PQC is a significant undertaking, requiring careful preparation to address new risks and safeguard data and identities, which are central to the global digital society.
“This week’s release of the new PQC standards from NIST is a watershed moment in the history of cryptography, one that Thales has been proudly participating in and preparing for over the past decade,” said Thales Global Vice President for Encryption, Todd Moore. “It is critical for organisations to begin securing their data and infrastructure with these new standards. With risks such as Harvest Now, Decrypt Later attacks, where cyber criminals steal and store data in preparation for quantum computing capabilities, it is essential that organisations prepare immediately for this unprecedented cryptographic transformation by adopting crypto agile solutions that support these new quantum-safe algorithms.”
Thales says its researchers have played a central role in prepping for the quantum revolution and have long been developing the next generation of quantum solutions that will shape the post-quantum world. Broadly speaking, this research can be grouped into three different categories;
- Quantum sensors: which are improving our ability to understand and interact with our environment. These sensors, based on quantum mechanics, offer more efficient and accurate sensing capabilities, impacting everything from medical devices to defence systems.
- Quantum communications: which are set to revolutionise digital communications by securing them with quantum-safe cryptographic keys. This technology will enable secure communications across large-scale networks and the future internet.
- Post-quantum cryptography: which is essential for ensuring a smooth transition from current algorithms to quantum-resistant ones. The focus is on developing flexible, upgradeable solutions that support both classic and emerging quantum-resistant crypto standards.
Thales urges organisations to proactively engage with these advancements, ensuring they are prepared for the quantum leap.
