The quantum threat and post-quantum security
in communication

“In light of quantum computing advancements, post-quantum cryptography
and quantum resistant secure communication measures are gaining increased importance.”

What is Quantum Computing?

Simple put, quantum computing is a modern way of computing that is based on the science of quantum mechanics. It provides high computational power, less energy consumption and exponential speed over classical computers by controlling the behavior of small physical objects. Quantum computers are superior to traditional computers and can do arbitrary reversible classical computation on all the numbers simultaneously.

The rapid advancement of quantum computing presents a monumental stride in technological innovation, poised to revolutionise diverse sectors ranging from science to commerce. Yet, accompanying its promise, the quantum threat emerges as a formidable challenge to the bedrock of internet security—cryptographic standards. Harnessing the principles of quantum mechanics, quantum computers wield unprecedented computational prowess, capable of executing operations at exponential speeds beyond the reach of conventional computing paradigms. This remarkable capability, however, poses a profound challenge to the cryptographic protocols safeguarding online communications and transactions.

The nature of the quantum threat:

Quantum computers use quantum bits (qubits) to store and process information. Unlike classical bits, which can take values of 0 or 1, qubits can exist in superposition, i.e. they can carry both 0 and 1 values. This quantum parallelism gives quantum computers their computational power.

Quantum computers use two key algorithms to break cryptographic ciphers:

The Shor algorithm: this algorithm uses the exponential speed of quantum computers to factor large prime numbers, which is the basis of today’s cryptographic standards.
Grover algorithm: this algorithm searches more efficiently in unordered databases, speeding up the search for secret keys by brute-force attack.

Why is it important?

The quantum threat poses a seminal challenge to internet security, necessitating a proactive and collaborative approach to fortify cryptographic standards.

Additionally, in the realm of data privacy, the quantum threat casts a long shadow, heightening concerns regarding confidentiality and eavesdropping prevention mechanisms. Consider a scenario where a healthcare institution transmits sensitive patient records over the internet, encrypting them to safeguard privacy. However, with quantum computing advancements, the efficacy of current encryption methods comes under scrutiny. For instance, a quantum computer could potentially decrypt encrypted medical records, compromising patient privacy and confidentiality. This underscores the urgency of developing quantum-resistant encryption mechanisms to preserve data privacy in the quantum era.

Moreover, the quantum threat extends beyond decryption to eavesdropping on sensitive communications. Quantum computers could exploit vulnerabilities in encryption keys, enabling adversaries to intercept and manipulate data transmissions undetected. This poses significant risks to national security, financial institutions, and businesses reliant on secure communications for sensitive transactions.

Key areas of the Internet affected by the quantum threat:

Data security: the decryption of encrypted communications and data increases the risk of unauthorized access to confidential information.
Electronic signatures: the risk of forgery of digital signatures increases, which can undermine the reliability of contracts and transactions.
Electronic payments: the security of credit cards and online payment systems can be weakened, leading to data leakage and financial loss.
Cyber security: quantum computers may enable more powerful ransomware attacks and more sophisticated cyber warfare tactics.

In conclusion, the quantum threat poses a significant challenge to data privacy and eavesdropping prevention efforts. By developing and deploying quantum-resistant encryption methods, stakeholders can mitigate the risks posed by quantum computing advancements and preserve data privacy in the quantum era.

Quantum security is not a theoretical problem, it is a real and urgent challenge that we must respond to now. By being proactive, we can prevent future disasters and keep the internet safe in the age of quantum computing.

To understand „Basic Differences Between Classical and Quantum Cryptography”, read our article.

What to do to avoid the treat of quantum computers:

The pace of quantum security is critical. Industry, governments and institutions must work together to address the quantum threat. It is important to move to quantum security standards before quantum computers become a threat to current cryptographic systems.

To stay ahead post-quantum cryptographic algorithms should be implemented secure against a cryptanalytic attack by a quantum computer.
In addition to quantum a posteriori solutions, hybrid encryption methods can be used temporarily, using a combination of classical and quantum a posteriori algorithms. This can protect against immediate threats while quantum post-encryption is being built.

What is Post-Quantum Cryptography?

Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC) is a branch of cryptography specifically designed to resist attacks by quantum computers. It involves developing cryptographic algorithms that are secure against both classical and quantum computers. PQC aims to ensure the long-term security of sensitive data by providing encryption methods that remain robust even in the era of quantum computing.

If you are interested in learning more about “Types of Post-Quantum Cryptographic Algorithms”, read our article.

The quantum threat cannot be postponed

Although quantum computers at their current level of sophistication do not yet pose an immediate and direct threat to internet security, the threat is growing. Given the time it will take to replace encryption infrastructure, the industry must act now to prevent future damage. Moving to quantum-safe solutions is not an option, it is a necessity.

Besides the threat of quantum computing, there are more threats

Quantum computing is only one of the threats which may harm your privacy and business communications.

To learn more about “why to use secure communication tools”, click here.

To understand in depth how KvantPhone can protect you against the above described threats, please check out the followings: