The PQC Coalition: Advancing Post-Quantum Cryptography for Enhanced Data Security

The PQC Coalition, a group of prominent technologists, researchers, and domain experts, has been formed to promote the understanding and adoption of post-quantum cryptography (PQC) algorithms. With the imminent arrival of quantum computers, there is growing concern that the encryption currently used to protect sensitive data may be vulnerable in the future.

Founding members of the coalition include IBM Quantum, Microsoft, MITRE, PQShield, SandboxAQ and the University of Waterloo. The goal of the coalition is to drive progress in PQC and promote a smooth transition to quantum-resistant cryptography.

According to Charles Clancy, chief futurist and senior vice president of MITER, the arrival of quantum computers presents both opportunities and threats to national and economic security. Both government and industry need urgent action to ensure that sensitive data and communications remain secure in light of advances in quantum computing.

The PQC Coalition aims to use its collective knowledge and expertise to promote the global implementation of PQC. Working together, coalition members will help develop and implement PQC solutions, raise awareness of the issue, and streamline the migration process for organizations.

The coalition will focus on four key areas: refining PQC migration standards, creating educational materials, creating open source code, and ensuring cryptographic agility. These workflows are essential to prepare for the transition to post-quantum cryptography and ensure a successful PQC deployment.

The selection of four PQC algorithms by NIST in July 2022 was the first step in enabling PQC migration. Since then, NIST has released draft standards for three algorithms, and a fourth is expected to be released in 2024. Transition planning, standardization, and algorithm integration into commercial technologies are complex tasks, but critical to a successful PQC transition.

It is critical for organizations and individuals to actively use post-quantum cryptography to protect sensitive information in the future. The PQC Coalition offers an opportunity for collaboration and joint efforts to keep our digital world safe.

Sources:
– MCLEAN, Va. & BEDFORD, Time.
– National Institute of Science and Technology (NIST)

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2023-09-26 18:06:39
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