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Working today can help protect the blockchain from tomorrow’s quantum attacks
Brief insider
- A leading cryptographic researcher has issued a warning to blockchain developers to start working on post-quantum computing security now.
- Professor Massimiliano Sala of the University of Trento has warned that quantum computing poses a significant threat to blockchain security.
- Sala specifically highlighted the work of the National Institute of Standards and Technology to create a global collaboration in PQC security.
A leading researcher in the field of cryptographic security has said that although quantum computers may not be available tomorrow, actions to protect blockchains from hackers using this technology must be started today.
In a recent Interview with Ripple Insights, Professor Massimiliano Sala of Italy’s University of Trento warned that quantum computing poses a significant threat to blockchain security. Professor Sala, a cryptography expert, added that the blockchain industry must work now to move to quantum-resistant cryptosystems.
“Quantum computers could easily solve the problems underlying digital signatures, potentially undermining the mechanisms that protect user assets on blockchain platforms,” Professor Sala said in the post.
Quantum resistant cryptographic defenses
The cryptographic community has made great strides towards developing “post-quantum” cryptographic schemes that offer security against quantum attacks. Sala suggested continuing the development and implementation of quantum-resistant cryptographic systems to further counter these threats, Professor Sala said.
“All classical public key cryptosystems should be replaced with counterparts that are safe against quantum attacks,” he said.
The transition to these new systems is essential to maintaining the integrity and security of the blockchain.
Algebra and coding theory can help guide the construction of quantum-resistant systems. Sala specifically cited examples such as finding the closest element in a predetermined lattice and decoding noisy data. These mathematical frameworks are vital for developing robust security solutions to protect blockchain technology from quantum threats.
Global collaboration
International collaboration is key in this effort. Professor Sala praised initiatives such as the US National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) standardization process, which is spurring global efforts to establish common cryptographic standards resistant to quantum attacks. This collaborative approach ensures rigorous evaluation of new cryptographic schemes, improving their reliability and security.
From an educational perspective, Professor Sala highlighted the need to update academic programs to include quantum-resistant cryptographic methods. This shift involves moving from traditional cryptographic education, focused on integer factorization and discrete logarithms, to addressing the challenges posed by quantum computing.
Immediate action is needed
Professor Sala advised organizations to immediately begin the transition to quantum-resistant technologies. “The likelihood of quantum threats materializing may not be imminent, but it is significant enough to warrant proactive measures,” he said. He recommended that blockchain developers remain engaged in ongoing standardization efforts and participate in forums focused on quantum security advances.
Ripple and PQC
Ripple is particularly interested in post-quantum cryptography because it is a technology company that provides real-time payment solutions using blockchain technology. The Ripple community is focused on creating secure, instant and low-cost international payments. Ripple’s core product is RippleNet, a global payments network that connects banks, payment service providers, and digital asset exchanges to facilitate cross-border transactions.
Ripple also has its own digital currency, XRP, which is used to provide liquidity for transactions on the network and to connect different currencies.
The Ripple Insights blog also offers articles on topics including legal landscape of digital finance AND privacy and trust on public blockchains.
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