Subscribe now

Technology

Quantum-proof encryption may not actually stop quantum hackers

Cryptographers are scrambling to understand an algorithm that could undermine the mathematics behind next-generation encryption methods, which are intended to protect against quantum computers

By Matthew Sparkes

18 April 2024

Quantum computers could crack existing encryption methods

Jvphoto/Alamy

An algorithm that could break supposedly future-proofed encryption methods has cryptographers scrambling to understand the threat, though there is no immediate danger of hackers gaining access to encrypted data.

Quantum computers threaten to one day crack the widely used encryption algorithms that keep banking, email and other data safe, so researchers having been working to develop “post-quantum” algorithms to replace them. Many of these are based on “lattice problems”, an area of mathematics that involves regular patterns, or lattices, in space. The algorithms have been approved as secure by…

Sign up to our weekly newsletter

Receive a weekly dose of discovery in your inbox! We'll also keep you up to date with New Scientist events and special offers.

Sign up

To continue reading, subscribe today with our introductory offers

View introductory offers

No commitment, cancel anytime*

Offer ends 2nd of July 2024.

*Cancel anytime within 14 days of payment to receive a refund on unserved issues.

Inclusive of applicable taxes (VAT)

or

Existing subscribers

Sign in to your account