NIST Announces First Four Quantum-Resistant Algorithms

Editorial Staff | Tech Xplore for National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) | 5 July 2022

QuSecure is excited to share the recent announcement from the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). We share the sentiments of the Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo who is quoted as saying, “Today’s announcement is an important milestone in securing our sensitive data against the possibility of future cyberattacks from quantum computers. Thanks to NIST’s expertise and commitment to cutting-edge technology, we are able to take the necessary steps to secure electronic information so U.S. businesses can continue innovating while maintaining the trust and confidence of their customers.”

Highlights of the article include:

• This follows a six-year effort managed by NIST, which in 2016 called upon the world’s cryptographers to devise and then vet encryption methods that could resist an attack from a future quantum computer that is more powerful than the comparatively limited machines available today.
• Four additional algorithms are under consideration for inclusion in the standard, and NIST plans to announce the finalists from that round at a future date.

We also share the sentiments of Under Secretary of Commerce for Standards and Technology and NIST Director Laurie E. Locascio, who is quoted as saying, “Our post-quantum cryptography program has leveraged the top minds in cryptography—worldwide—to produce this first group of quantum-resistant algorithms that will lead to a standard and significantly increase the security of our digital information.”

A more detailed review of this important NIST announcement on Tech Explore is available by clicking here.