Defend Your Data: Essential Steps to Combat Quantum Computing Risks
Guest blog by Lena Franke, Senior Product Marketing Manager at Utimaco
The future of cybersecurity faces a monumental challenge: quantum computing. This emerging technology promises to revolutionize many fields, but it also poses a significant threat to our current cryptographic methods by breaking traditional public-key schemes and significantly weakening symmetric cryptography, thus threatening the confidentiality, integrity, and authentication of sensitive data. But this isn't just an IT problem - it endangers entire chains of trust – from communications, contracts, and transactions. If quantum computing advances unchecked, it could undermine the very foundation of our digital security.
Preparing for the Quantum Threat: Action Steps for Cybersecurity Professionals
And as we edge closer to the era of quantum computing, cybersecurity professionals must act now to prepare for the inevitable. Here's what you can do:
- Execute a Crypto Inventory: Evaluate your current cryptographic inventory (what kinds of algorithms are used where and for which purpose), identify vulnerable areas and prioritize the need for migration.
- Develop a Strategic Roadmap: Create a detailed long-term plan for transitioning to quantum-resistant cryptography, including timelines and resource allocation.
- Select and Test Post Quantum Cryptography (PQC): Begin testing potential PQC algorithms in your environment to identify and address any interoperability or performance issues, with trustworthy partners to aid in your journey.
Real-World PQC Implementations
Many industries are already leveraging the protection that PQC solutions can bring. For example, automobiles component firmware and satellite communications that must be secured beyond the protected date for viable quantum computing need quantum resilient signature and encryption schemes today.
2024 Competitive Strategy Leader in the Global PQC Industry – Download the Report
Shaping Tomorrow's Cryptography: The Role in PQC Committees
As quantum computing advances, our cryptography must evolve to meet new challenges.
Several key committees from various institutions and associations are leading discussions on implementing and adopting PQC algorithms and other quantum-secure strategies. These groups are the epicentre of collaboration, setting the standards for the next wave of cryptographic protocols, and contributing to pivotal organizations:
- NIST Working Groups
- ETSI Quantum-Safe Cryptography (QSC) Working Group
- PQC Workstreams of the PKI Consortium
- X9 PQC Committee
- GSMA PQC Working Groups
- And more
Act now for long-term security
Cybersecurity professionals need to start preparing for the quantum future now:
- Run a Cryptographic Inventory: Conduct thorough evaluations of your current cryptographic systems.
- Test and Implement PQC Solutions: Begin testing PQC algorithms and integrating them into your systems.
- Stay Informed: Keep up to date with PQC standardization efforts and industry developments.
- Partner with Experts: Work with experienced PQC solution providers to ensure a smooth transition to quantum-resistant cryptography.
By taking these steps, you can safeguard your organization against the impending quantum threat and ensure a secure digital future.
Final Thoughts
„RSA-2048 is only considered secure until 2030.”
(guidance in NIST SP 800-78-5)
Quantum computing is not a distant threat - it's a looming reality. And as we transition to Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC), effective risk management is essential to address vulnerabilities and integration challenges. The Risk Manager's role in identifying, assessing, and mitigating these risks will be crucial to ensuring a secure and smooth implementation of PQC solutions. But cybersecurity professionals must act now to protect their organizations. Moreover, with the right preparations and partnerships, we can navigate this transition smoothly and maintain the integrity of our digital infrastructure.
Embrace the change, lead the way, and ensure your organization stays ahead in the quantum era.
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Jill Broom
Head of Cyber Resilience, techUK
Jill leads the techUK Cyber Security programme, having originally joined techUK in October 2020 as a Programme Manager for the Cyber and Central Government programmes. She is responsible for managing techUK's work across the cyber security ecosystem, bringing industry together with key stakeholders across the public and private sectors. Jill also provides the industry secretariat for the Cyber Growth Partnership, the industry and government conduit for supporting the growth of the sector. A key focus of her work is to strengthen the public–private partnership across cyber to support further development of UK cyber security and resilience policy.
Before joining techUK, Jill worked as a Senior Caseworker for an MP, advocating for local communities, businesses and individuals, so she is particularly committed to techUK’s vision of harnessing the power of technology to improve people’s lives. Jill is also an experienced editorial professional and has delivered copyediting and writing services for public-body and SME clients as well as publishers.
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Annie Collings
Programme Manager, Cyber Resilience, techUK
Annie is the Programme Manager for Cyber Resilience at techUK. She first joined as the Programme Manager for Cyber Security and Central Government in September 2023.
In her role, Annie supports the Cyber Security SME Forum, engaging regularly with key government and industry stakeholders to advance the growth and development of SMEs in the cyber sector. Annie also coordinates events, engages with policy makers and represents techUK at a number of cyber security events.
Before joining techUK, Annie was an Account Manager at a specialist healthcare agency, where she provided public affairs support to a wide range of medical technology clients. She also gained experience as an intern in both an MP’s constituency office and with the Association of Independent Professionals and the Self-Employed. Annie holds a degree in International Relations from Nottingham Trent University.
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Tracy Modha
Programme Marketing Assistant for Public Sector Markets, techUK
Tracy supports the marketing of several areas at techUK, including Cyber Exchange, Central Government, Cyber Resilience, Defence, Education, Health and Social Care, Justice and Emergency Services, Local Public Services, Nations and Regions and National Security.
Tracy joined techUK in March 2022, having worked in the education sector for 19 years, covering administration, research project support, IT support and event/training support. My most outstanding achievement has been running three very successful international conferences and over 300 training courses booked all over the globe!
Tracy has a great interest in tech. Gaming and computing have been a big part of her life, and now electric cars are an exciting look at the future. She has warmed to Alexa, even though it can sometimes be sassy!
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Authors
Lena Franke
Senior Product Marketing Manager, Utimaco
