SafeCipher Advocates Data Identification and Classification with a Quantum Perspective

 

Incorporating NIST’s post-quantum cryptography (PQC) measures into the process of identifying your data, applying data encryption, and selecting encryption algorithms is essential for future-proofing the security of your data.

Data Identification and Classification with a Quantum Perspective

Quantum-Sensitive Data Identification: Beyond understanding what data you have and its classification, it’s crucial to identify which data could be at risk in a post-quantum era. This involves assessing the longevity and sensitivity of data to determine if it would still be sensitive when quantum computers become capable of breaking current encryption algorithms.

Long-Term Confidentiality Needs: For data that needs to remain confidential for many years (e.g., personal identifiers, state secrets, long-term contracts), the potential threat from quantum computers must be considered now, as encrypted data could be harvested today with the intention of decrypting it in the future.

Post-Quantum Data Encryption

Adoption of Quantum-Resistant Algorithms: The choice of encryption methods must include consideration of PQC algorithms that are designed to be secure against quantum attacks. As NIST finalizes and standardizes post-quantum encryption algorithms, organizations should prepare to transition to these new standards for their most sensitive data.

Hybrid Encryption Approaches: Until PQC algorithms are fully standardized and implemented, a hybrid approach that combines current encryption methods with quantum-resistant algorithms may be used to secure data against both classical and quantum threats.

Regulatory and Compliance Requirements in the Quantum Era

Compliance with Emerging Standards: Future regulatory standards may require the adoption of PQC measures for certain types of data. Identifying the data that falls under these future requirements is crucial for compliance and protecting against quantum threats.

Quantum Risk Assessment: Regulations might also mandate organizations to conduct quantum risk assessments for their encrypted data, necessitating a deep understanding of what data they have and its exposure to quantum risks.

Performance Considerations with Post-Quantum Algorithms

Evaluating Quantum-Resistant Performance: Quantum-resistant algorithms often come with different performance characteristics compared to classical algorithms. Understanding the data flows and encryption needs allows for selecting PQC algorithms that balance security with performance impact, especially important as some PQC algorithms may introduce larger key sizes or processing requirements.

Future-proofing with Quantum Resilience

Regular Updates and Transition Plans: As the threat landscape evolves with quantum computing, so too must encryption strategies. Organizations need to stay informed about the progress in PQC standardization and readiness, incorporating these advancements into their data protection strategies. This includes planning for the transition to quantum-resistant algorithms and ensuring that encryption technologies can be updated without significant disruptions.

Conclusion

Incorporating NIST’s post-quantum cryptography measures into the identification and encryption of data is not just about enhancing current security practices; it’s about future-proofing against the emerging threats posed by quantum computing.

This approach is the approach that SafeCipher recommends and offers guidance to implement and deploy. It ensures that sensitive data remains secure both today and in the future, adapting to advancements in computational capabilities and evolving cybersecurity threats.

By considering the quantum perspective from the outset, organizations can ensure they are prepared for the transition to quantum-resistant encryption, safeguarding their data against both current and future threats.

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