How to Identify Weak Cryptographic Algorithms in Your Code
Quantum computing is rapidly advancing from theoretical research to practical application. While this breakthrough technology promises great advancements, it also introduces significant risks, particularly in cybersecurity. One of the most pressing concerns is the potential for quantum computers to break the cryptographic algorithms that currently safeguard our digital infrastructure.
Historically, the requirement to know (or inventory) your cryptographic algorithms was driven by strict export compliance regulations. The nature and strength of your algorithms determine your Export Control Classification Number (ECCN). Today, while compliance remains important, lacking awareness of your cryptographic algorithms—whether open source, proprietary, or embedded in dependencies—can leave your organisation vulnerable to attacks that disrupt operations and compromise sensitive data.
Most of today’s cryptographic algorithms, such as RSA and ECC (Elliptic Curve Cryptography), are foundational to securing digital communications, financial transactions, and the protection of sensitive data. These algorithms are built on mathematical problems that, for even the most powerful classical computers, would take millions of years to solve. A core challenge for these methods is the computational difficulty of factoring large prime numbers.
Quantum computers, using principles of quantum mechanics, have the potential to solve these problems exponentially faster. Shor's algorithm, for instance, can efficiently factor large integers within hours. As quantum technology matures, the cryptographic protections we currently depend on could become obsolete.
Considering this period, organisations should proactively secure their cryptographic infrastructure. Beginning by cataloguing all cryptographic algorithms employed across systems, applications, and data storage, determining which systems require immediate attention based on sensitivity and exposure, and evaluating the strength and quantum resilience of identified algorithms. The first step is understanding all your supply chain dependencies, and the keys that are used, to create an inventory of the algorithms you are using in your code.
To mitigate the risks posed by quantum computing, organisations should consider transitioning to quantum-resistant, or post-quantum, cryptographic algorithms. These algorithms are designed to remain secure even in the presence of quantum computational capabilities. The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) is actively working on standardising such algorithms, with several candidates under evaluation. These include module-lattice-based encryption and StateLess Hash-Based Digital Signature.
By conducting thorough cryptographic inventories and planning transitions to quantum-resistant algorithms, businesses can safeguard their digital assets against future threats, ensuring resilience in the evolving technological landscape. The transformative potential of quantum computing highlights the urgent need for quantum-safe cryptography. By identifying and addressing vulnerabilities in your cryptographic stack today, you can mitigate tomorrow's risks.
SCANOSS is here to help you prepare for the quantum era. Contact us and get ready for Q-Day with our Encryption Dataset.
The right time to act is now.
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