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DHS and NIST Offer Guidance on Quantum Security Risks

Quantum computers could easily break current encryption.

Quantum computing advances in the coming years are expected to offer benefits while also posting a threat to national security. Guidance offered by the Department of Homeland Security and the National Institute of Standards and Technology is designed to mitigate that threat. Credit: graphicINmotion/Shutterstock

Today, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), in partnership with the Department of Commerce’s National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), released a road map to help organizations protect their data and systems and to reduce risks related to the advancement of quantum computing technology.

While quantum computing promises unprecedented computing speed and power it also poses new risks, especially if potential adversaries achieve breakthroughs more quickly than the United States. As the technology advances, it is expected to break some encryption methods that are widely used to protect customer data, complete business transactions and secure communications. The new guidance is designed to help organizations prepare for the transition to post-quantum cryptography by identifying, prioritizing and protecting potentially vulnerable data, algorithms, protocols and systems.

“Quantum computing will be a scientific breakthrough. It is also expected to pose new data privacy and cybersecurity risks,” Alejandro Mayorkas, secretary of homeland security, says in a press release. “Now is the time for organizations to assess and mitigate their related risk exposure. As we continue responding to urgent cyber challenges, we must also stay ahead of the curve by focusing on strategic, long-term goals. This new roadmap will help protect our critical infrastructure and increase cybersecurity resilience across the country.” 

In March, Mayorkas outlined his vision for cybersecurity resilience and identified the transition to post-quantum encryption as a priority. DHS also issued internal policy guidance to drive the department’s own preparedness efforts and is conducting a macro-level analysis to inform the government’s action and ensure a smooth and equitable transition.

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