Post-Quantum Cryptography: The Race Is On

Quantum computers and quantum cryptography have become hot industry buzzwords that are popping up more in the press. With that, the question becomes what happens to the security of our data covered by today’s pre-quantum cryptography technology? This Forbes article helps highlight solutions on the way in the race to post-quantum cryptography:

The good news is that solutions are on the way. Recognizing the urgency of the task and the time needed to formulate, choose, standardize and deploy new systems, the U.S. National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) launched a Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC) standardization process in 2016. In July 2020, NIST announced seven third-round candidates, covering both public-key encryption (PKE) and digital signatures.

The article goes on to note that while this may still be a while away, people should not get complacent but instead continue to pay attention to basic best practices when it comes to security.

Within a year, NIST will select its post-quantum finalists. Then we will start hearing more about new cryptosystems and the deprecation of existing ones. If your work or business depends on secure data and transactions (and whose doesn’t?), you can put an eventual transition on your IT road map. But now is also a good time to audit your cybersecurity infrastructure and strengthen existing defenses. Don’t neglect the basics. Bad actors may steal secure files or record targeted transactions today, with an eye on quantum code-breaking tools that may become readily accessible.

via Forbes–Post-Quantum Cryptography: The Race Is On