How to safeguard your data from future quantum attacks
Quantum computing promises to revolutionize problem-solving in industries worldwide, but it also poses a serious threat to classical cryptographic systems. As this new technology advances, encryption methods like RSA and ECC (Elliptic Curve Cryptography) will become vulnerable, putting your data at risk. These methods have kept businesses safe for decades but are now becoming outdated. It is time to act now to protect systems from future quantum attacks.
With the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) recently announcing its first set of post-quantum cryptography (PQC) algorithms, the countdown has begun. Future-proofing your encryption isn’t just a technical consideration; it’s a strategic business decision that could protect your organization’s data long-term.
In this guide, we’ll outline five actionable steps to safeguard your systems and ensure your business is prepared for the era of quantum computing.
Step 1: conduct an encryption audit
The first step in preparing for quantum security is auditing all cryptographic systems currently in use. Identify where your business relies on classical algorithms like RSA or ECC, which will no longer be secure once quantum computers become mainstream.
Are these algorithms being applied to data storage, communications, or financial transactions? By pinpointing where encryption vulnerabilities lie, you can better prioritize what systems need urgent attention.
Automated tools can make the audit process more efficient, scanning your systems and identifying weaknesses quickly. With quantum computing potentially breaking current cryptographic protections within the next decade, it’s essential to have a full understanding of your cryptographic environment as soon as possible.
Step 2: perform a risk assessment
Not every system within your organization is equally vulnerable to quantum attacks. That’s why it’s crucial to assess which ones will be at the highest risk and require immediate action. Focus on systems that handle sensitive or long-lasting data, as they will likely face the greatest exposure to quantum threats, including the risk of ‘harvest now, decrypt later’ attacks on network traffic.
For example, government organizations and industries that process financial data or personal information need to ensure their encryption is resilient. Data that needs to be protected for many years, such as legal contracts or medical records, should be a priority, as they are the most likely to be compromised when quantum computers become more common.
At this stage, look closely at systems using RSA, ECC or DH encryption methods. These classical algorithms will be the first to fall to quantum decryption, making them prime candidates for immediate review.
Step 3: develop a mitigation plan
Once you’ve completed your risk assessment, the next step is to decide how to mitigate the risks you’ve identified. There are three primary strategies to consider:
- Upgrade Existing Encryption: In some cases, you may be able to adopt hybrid solutions that combine classical encryption with quantum-safe methods. Where possible choose solutions that are backward compatible with your existing systems, allowing for a phased integration without the need for a complete infrastructure overhaul.
- Replace Encryption Entirely: If possible, move away from classical algorithms like RSA and ECC and replace them with quantum-safe alternatives, such as those included in NIST’s PQC standards. While this may require a more substantial investment, it offers long-term security benefits.
- Accept the Risk: Not all systems will need immediate updating. For low-priority systems that won’t be vulnerable to quantum attacks for decades, you can afford to take a “wait-and-see” approach. However, this should only be applied to systems that handle data with low sensitivity or short retention periods.
Having a mitigation plan in place allows you to take control of your encryption transition rather than being forced into action later when quantum computers pose an immediate threat.
Step 4: evaluate quantum-safe solutions
When selecting a quantum-safe encryption solution, it’s important to evaluate all options based on their compatibility with your current systems and future-proofing potential. Look for solutions built around NIST’s PQC algorithms, as these have been tested and approved for their resilience against quantum attacks.
Consider hybrid solutions that offer backward compatibility while incorporating quantum-safe protocols. Senetas, for example, offers encryption solutions designed to meet these new standards, providing businesses with a seamless migration path toward quantum-safe encryption.
Your encryption solution should also be adaptable. Quantum technology is evolving quickly, so it’s essential that your encryption can evolve with it. The solution you implement today should be capable of scaling and adjusting as advancements in quantum computing continue to unfold.
Step 5: create a migration timeline
Finally, to minimize disruption, your organization should approach the shift to quantum-safe encryption through a phased migration. Start with an immediate assessment to identify and prioritize the most vulnerable systems. Once you’ve established a clear understanding of your risk, develop a step-by-step plan to migrate affected systems to quantum-safe encryption.
This timeline should include short-term fixes and long-term strategies. For example, you might begin by upgrading the encryption on your most critical data systems, followed by less essential systems in later phases. Continue to monitor and adapt your systems to ensure they remain secure as quantum computing technology advances.
The Cloud Security Alliance’s Y2Q (Years to Quantum) page offers valuable insights into the recommended timelines for completing a quantum-safe transition. According to Y2Q experts, businesses that begin their migration today will be better positioned to safeguard their data before quantum computers become fully operational.
Prepare today, secure tomorrow
The window for preparing your organization for quantum computing threats is narrowing. While quantum computers aren’t fully functional yet, the vulnerabilities they will expose in classical encryption systems are no longer theoretical. Acting now will not only protect your business from future threats but also strengthen your overall cyber security posture.
Senetas is here to help guide you through this critical transition. Whether you’re starting with an encryption audit or evaluating quantum-safe solutions, our team of experts can help you future-proof your encryption and safeguard your systems for tomorrow’s challenges.
By following this 5-step guide, your business can take proactive steps to mitigate quantum threats and ensure long-term data security. Quantum computing is coming faster than we expect. The time to act is now.
