Secure Your Future with Post-Quantum Cryptography

As the world becomes more digital than ever, public key cryptography is essential for securing our online interactions. Whether you’re accessing your bank account, shopping online, or sending an email, cryptographic algorithms work behind the scenes to keep your data safe using encryption. They prevent eavesdropping attacks or altering of data and protect digital signatures. 

The Quantum Threat for Traditional Encryption 

Public key cryptography relies on complex mathematical problems, like factoring large integers, to provide security. Over the years, as computers have become more powerful, the length of cryptographic keys has increased to stay ahead of potential threats.  

In 1994, the American mathematician Peter Shor constructed an algorithm that can effectively factor large numbers, making it possible to break public encryption systems. In order to work, Shor’s algorithm depends on quantum computers. However, at the time of his discovery, quantum computers were purely theoretical constructs. 

Three decades later though, quantum computing doesn’t sound like an invention in a sci-fi book anymore. Tech giants have started offering cloud quantum computing services and companies are already implementing quantum computing-friendly code. 

Q-Day Is Drawing Near  

Quantum computing is radically different from traditional processors. It can solve complex mathematical problems very rapidly. That speed also applies to cryptography. Conversations about quantum have warned about the so-called Quantum Day, or Q-Day—the hypothetical date when quantum computers will become powerful enough to break commonly used data encryption, potentially exposing sensitive data and disrupting digital systems. 

How much time is left until Q-Day materializes? Some experts see it coming within the next 30 years, others believe it’s just around the corner. While there is no consensus about an exact timeline for Q-Day, threat actors may already be taking a “harvest now, decrypt later” attack approach. They may already be collecting and storing encrypted material today, waiting patiently for quantum computing to mature enough to exploit it. 

Post-quantum Cryptography Comes to the Rescue 

With the security and privacy of electronic information in jeopardy, cryptographers have turned to developing new encryption methods that would be able to withstand quantum attacks. Post-quantum, or quantum-safe, cryptography (PQC) is based on math problems that both classic and quantum computers would struggle to solve. PQC algorithms are designed to perform two main tasks: provide general encryption of information and secure digital signatures. 

Leading a global effort to create defenses against attacks by quantum computers, the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), the U.S. national metrology agency, has recently outlined a PQC timeline for transitioning to stronger algorithms. The institute recommends that traditional cryptographic algorithms be deprecated by 2030 and disallowed by 2035.  

Cryptographic Agility as a Safety Measure  

The migration towards PQC will take time and will in all probability encounter obstacles, creating new demand for computing equipment. For simpler systems, 5–10 years is ample time to ensure protection. However, since the quantum threat impacts all layers of the technology landscape—from networking devices to domain applications—larger enterprises will likely need the full duration to shield themselves while ensuring business continuity.  

When shifting to a PQC model, the best approach is to practice cryptographic agility, or the ability to switch safely between different cryptographic solutions with relative ease. To this end, you must adhere to the following best practices:  

• Cryptographic inventory: Create a map of all your cryptographic assets  
• Key rotation: Regularly update your cryptographic keys 
• Common libraries: Use well-tested cryptography libraries 
• End-to-end testing: Make sure your data remains secure from start to finish  
• Cost and resource allocation: Plan for pervasive changes 

Prepare Your Organization Now 

As experts in cybersecurity and enterprise architecture, we advise organizations planning a transition to PQC to take a comprehensive approach to make sure their digital security remains robust in the face of emerging threats. Our service offerings in the post-quantum space will help you reach your PQC goals: 

• PQC Architecture Vision: We work with you to understand your business goals and prioritize those systems that are more critical for your business. We start with a high-level „as-is“ assessment to understand your current cybersecurity landscape. 
• PQC Assessment and Strategy Development: We gather detailed information from prioritized systems to create a comprehensive „as-is“ picture of your current architecture. We then develop a future state vision, identifying gaps and work packages needed to make the architecture safer for a post-quantum scenario. This includes making modifications to software and hardware and ensuring policies, procedures, and best practices are integrated. 
• PQC Implementation Governance: We support the implementation process to ensure everything aligns with the vision and detailed strategy. Our governance ensures that the transition is smooth, compliant, and effective. 
• Cryptographic Change Management and Continuous Improvement: We help manage cryptographic changes and continuously improve your security posture, adapting to new threats and technological advancements. 

Final Thoughts 

The rise of quantum computing isn’t an abstract concept. Although no-one can predict with certainty when quantum computers will threaten cybersecurity as we know it, their potential impact is more than clear. Businesses cannot afford to be passive observers of such a profound process and must take steps to secure their digital assets. Post-quantum cryptography offers a path forward, providing a shield against the attacks of quantum computers that threaten to deprive us of our security and privacy.  

As your guide towards PQC transformation, we’ll help you take the most appropriate approach tailored for the specifics of your organization. Contact us to get a consultation service. We’re here to help you navigate the complexities of the security world and protect your business.