Quantum-Safe Cryptography Urgently Needed as Researchers Breach AES Encryption
October 14, 2024Recent advancements in quantum-secure cryptography are crucial as they address the imminent threats posed by future quantum computers.
The rise of quantum computing necessitates a shift from traditional algorithms like RSA and ECC to quantum-resistant alternatives.
This shift highlights the urgent need for developing more secure communication technologies to protect against potential breaches of existing cryptographic methods.
Chinese researchers, led by Wang Chao from Shanghai University, have made significant strides in attacking cryptographic algorithms, specifically targeting those based on the Substitution-Permutation Network (SPN) structure, which is foundational to the Advanced Encryption Standard (AES).
Their research, published on September 30, details how their quantum computer can breach these encryption algorithms, raising alarms about the vulnerability of AES-256 and similar systems.
Organizations like the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) are actively working on post-quantum cryptographic algorithms to secure systems against these emerging threats.
NIST has begun establishing standards for post-quantum cryptography, recognizing that multiple algorithms will be necessary for comprehensive security.
One promising approach includes the development of an additive homomorphic cryptosystem, which could enhance encryption capabilities.
This breakthrough poses a substantial threat to password protection mechanisms across critical sectors, including banking and military applications.
Additionally, a lightweight public key encryption method based on an improved learning with error (LWE) system has been proposed to ensure private key security.
Despite the introduction of 'quantum safe' encryption solutions, their effectiveness against future quantum attacks remains uncertain.
Prominent cryptographer Adi Shamir predicts that significant quantum decryption capabilities may not emerge for another three decades, suggesting a window for developing robust defenses.
Summary based on 11 sources
Get a daily email with more Tech stories
Sources
South China Morning Post • Oct 11, 2024
Chinese scientists hack military grade encryption on quantum computer: paperThe Register • Oct 14, 2024
Crypto-apocalypse soon? Chinese researchers find a potential quantum attack on classical encryptionCointelegraph • Oct 14, 2024
Scientists breach cryptographic algorithms with quantum computer: SCMPTom's Hardware • Oct 14, 2024
Chinese scientists use quantum computers to crack military-grade encryption — quantum attack poses a "real and…