Cybersecurity
What do quantum-
resistant algorithms mean for your business?
Quantum computing is being hailed as the next significant evolutionary step, but what does it mean for global security? Nils Gerhardt, CTO at Utimaco explains how acting now can set businesses up for the future.
T
he US Department of Commerce’s National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) declared in early July last year that it has finalised four distinct algorithms – CRYSTALS-
Kyber, CRYSTALS-Dilithium, FALCON, and SPHINCS+ – after a six- year evaluation process. These algorithms are deemed capable of resisting the forthcoming quantum computers. Although the culmination of prolonged global mathematical research may appear insignificant to those outside the field of computer science, these discoveries will eventually affect all aspects of our lives and enterprises, regardless of our awareness. The concept of a quantum computer, which differs from the traditional
binary computer, has been around since the 1980s. However, only in recent years have functional prototypes, such as IBM’s Eagle, been created. These systems have already proven to be much faster than the most advanced traditional supercomputers. Due to the peculiar and counterintuitive nature of quantum phenomena, they can execute computations that would require an impractical amount of time on conventional computers. Even as early as 1994, researchers had established that quantum computers could compromise RSA public/ private key encryption, which remains a fundamental aspect of digital security to this day. As quantum computing technology continues to advance, its impact on industries, science, and everyday life will become increasingly significant.
26 | April 2023
The threat from quantum computing The advent of quantum computing has raised concerns about the future of global security and the economy. While conventional computers can potentially crack RSA encryption, it would take around 300 trillion years of computation to do so. However, with the utilisation of Shor’s algorithm in a quantum computer equipped with adequate ‘qubits,’ or quantum bits, the same encryption could be deciphered within seconds. The fact that only governments and large corporations have access to this technology is currently a relief, but the possible implications of quantum computing on global security and the economy cannot be ignored. In a post-quantum world, failing to prepare adequately for quantum-
resistant security measures could have catastrophic consequences. Attackers could easily gain access to sensitive information such as credit card details, encrypted patient data, or compromise the security of cryptocurrencies. Moreover, digitally signed documents generated before the adoption of quantum-resistant algorithms would be at risk, rendering countless legal agreements null and void unless they are re-signed using cryptography that is resilient to quantum computers. Even the blockchain, which serves as the backbone of the $2 trillion
cryptocurrency market and an ever-increasing number of other applications, could be vulnerable to quantum computing. Thus, there is an urgent need to develop and implement quantum-resistant cryptographic systems to protect sensitive information and preserve the integrity of critical infrastructure. The
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