Shantel
Key Takeaways
- PQShield, a global leader in quantum-resistant cryptography, has contributed to the creation of draft post-quantum cryptography (PQC) standards by NIST (National Institute of Standards and Technology).
- These standards, designed to safeguard digital information and systems from quantum computer attacks, were co-developed over a seven-year process involving candidate algorithm reviews and analyses by NIST and cryptographic experts.
- The PQC standards drafts have been published for public review and will undergo further assessment at the 2nd Oxford Post-Quantum Cryptography Summit, sponsored by PQShield and the UK National Cyber Security Centre.
- PQShield’s contributions to the PQC standards highlight its commitment to advancing quantum-safe cybersecurity solutions.
A Significant Milestone in Quantum-Safe Cryptography
PQShield, a pioneering force in quantum-resistant cryptography, has marked a significant milestone in the field of cybersecurity. The company has announced its pivotal role in contributing post-quantum algorithms to shape the foundations of the new draft post-quantum cryptography (PQC) standards by the US National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). These standards, representing a crucial advancement in digital security, are a result of collaborative efforts by PQShield, along with other global experts, in a rigorous seven-year process involving the evaluation and analysis of candidate algorithms by NIST and the cryptographic community.
The published draft standards are now available for public review and include the following:
- Module-Lattice-based Key-Encapsulation Mechanism Standard (ML-KEM) derived from CRYSTALS-Kyber | FIPS 203 (Draft)
- Module-Lattice-based Digital Signature Standard (ML-DSA) derived from CRYSTALS-Dilithium | FIPS 204 (Draft)
- Stateless Hash-Based Digital Signature Standard (SLH-DSA) derived from SPHINCS+ | FIPS 205 (Draft)
Another scheme derived from Falcon is expected to be published soon.
PQShield played a central role in contributing to and advising on the development of all candidate algorithms in the NIST standardization process. Additionally, the company provided critical security, implementation, and performance analyses across multiple rounds of the evaluation process.
Fostering Collaboration and Expertise at the Oxford PQC Summit
To facilitate constructive feedback on the newly published draft standards, PQShield, in collaboration with the UK National Cyber Security Centre, is sponsoring the 2nd Oxford Post-Quantum Cryptography Summit. This event, scheduled to take place at Oxford University in September, will bring together leading experts from academia and industry. The summit, spanning four days, aims to delve into the intricacies of post-quantum cryptography and foster valuable discussions among thought leaders in the field.
Dr. Ali El Kaafarani, founder and CEO of PQShield, underlines the significance of this initiative, stating, “NIST’s new draft standards provide this assurance and a framework that allows everyone to move forward. This is a testament to the expertise of our world-leading researchers and engineers as well as the collective dedication of the entire post-quantum cryptography community.”
The feedback garnered from this summit will play a pivotal role in refining the draft standards before they become the global benchmark for quantum-resistant cybersecurity in 2024.
Quantum Computers and the Urgent Need for Cryptographic Standards
The proliferation of quantum computers has brought forth an urgent need for new cryptographic standards to ensure the security of global privacy and data. PQShield, being at the forefront of quantum-resistant solutions, has witnessed a surge in demand for its post-quantum cryptography software and hardware. The company has forged strategic partnerships to meet this growing commercial demand, collaborating with industry innovators such as Palo Alto and Tata Consultancy Services.
Several prominent companies spanning industries such as Semiconductor, Industrial, Defense, Automotive, and Systems Integration are actively collaborating with PQShield to implement the new draft standards. Notable names including Microchip Technologies, Collins Aerospace, MBDA Missile Systems, HCL Technologies, Lattice Semiconductor, and AMD are among those working in tandem with PQShield to enhance their cybersecurity strategies.
Empowering Quantum Security and Readiness
PQShield’s commitment to quantum security extends beyond its contributions to cryptographic standards. The company played an instrumental role in the development of the Quantum Security Readiness Toolkit as part of the World Economic Forum’s Quantum Security focus. This toolkit aids business leaders in assessing their quantum risk and fortifying their security measures.
Furthermore, PQShield’s influence extends to various cryptographic projects, including collaborations with RISC-V, GSMA, the Internet Engineering Task Force, NCCoE, and GlobalPlatform. The company’s dedication to fostering innovation and strengthening the cybersecurity landscape is evident in its multifaceted contributions.
The Future of Quantum-Safe Cryptography
With the release of the draft standards, PQShield continues to demonstrate its commitment to quantum-safe cryptography and cybersecurity. The assurance provided by NIST’s draft standards marks a pivotal moment, assuaging concerns about the adoption and transition to post-quantum cryptography.
As the world grapples with the rapid evolution of technology, PQShield’s expertise, innovation, and collaborative efforts position it as a beacon of quantum-safe security in an increasingly interconnected digital realm.
About PQShield: Shaping the Future of Cybersecurity
Founded with a mission to establish quantum-resistant cryptographic standards, PQShield is a post-quantum cryptography (PQC) company leading the charge in shaping the future of cybersecurity. With a global footprint and a commitment to protecting sensitive data, PQShield’s quantum-secure cryptographic solutions seamlessly integrate with existing systems to offer unparalleled security.
The company’s capabilities extend to delivering secure implementations of quantum-safe cryptography on chips, in applications, and within cloud environments. PQShield’s expertise also encompasses side channel attack resistance, bolstered by partnerships with leading cybersecurity entities.
PQShield’s contributions to NIST’s post-quantum cryptography standardization project highlight its dedication to advancing quantum-safe solutions and driving industry-wide innovation. Backed by prominent investors and industry pioneers, PQShield is poised to usher in a new era of secure digital transformation.
For more information, please visit www.pqshield.com or connect with PQShield on LinkedIn and Twitter.
