Quantum-safe cryptography, also known as quantum-secure cryptography, might still seem a distant prospect today. Yet, everyone has to deal with it in everyday life. “For instance, when you do your banking, your data is encrypted. That way, no one can access it. To keep it that way in the future, we need to future-proof our cryptography against powerful quantum computers. These are currently being developed,” says Pieter Schneider, Programme Manager Directorate CIO Rijk.
Cryptography
Schneider: “Cryptography deals with techniques for encrypting data. This is one of the key foundations of our digital society. We need to keep our data secure to prevent attackers from reading and stealing it. We use cryptography in all areas of daily life. For instance, it is in our laptops, as well as in the way we connect to the cloud. By using proper encryption, however, an attacker will be unable to read our data; he will only see the encryption.”
Advanced Quantum Computer
“Currently, computers are already being deployed to decrypt data, but it’s a process that takes years. By the time it’s done, the output will be worth nothing. The problem looming ahead is that we know that an advanced quantum computer is being developed. It will be so powerful and do calculations so fast that it will be able to access data much faster. This development is only a few years from now. Therefore, we as the government need to take steps now to migrate to quantum-safe encryption. And in our wake, the rest of society. We cannot afford to have public services and vital sectors, such as banking and telecommunications, affected. Therefore, we need to move to quantum-secure cryptography ahead of time”, Schneider stresses.
A crucial task
Schneider explains how this challenge is being approached: “We have several task forces actively addressing specific issues within this theme concretely. For instance, we focus on managing crypto agility, meeting procurement requirements, and establishing cryptography policies. Additionally, we have a core group comprised of colleagues from various organisations within the Central Government. Our primary focus is raising awareness and engaging target groups.”
“Quantum-safe cryptography may seem intangible to many people, but it is coming. We aim to convey a sense of urgency. Organisations need to look in-house at what cryptographic assets they are using, who developed them and how they can then migrate to quantum-safe cryptography. Understanding cryptography is a prerequisite for eventual migration.”
“Sometimes, this can be done easily; other times, it may become more complex. As part of the Ministry of BZK, we play a connecting role: We build knowledge, learn from one another, and share information so that everyone can begin. While this may sound noncommittal, it is very important. As time progresses, migration pressure continues to rise. Organisations should not allow themselves be overwhelmed by this; rather, they should act proactively.”
Would you like to learn more?
Would you like to learn more about quantum-safe cryptography and what you can do? Please view our page Quantum-Safe Cryptography. Here, you will find an overview of useful websites to prepare your organisation.
