#QC chips are a potential threat to most existing cryptographic systems, including the ones securing many blockchain networks. QC is capable of factoring numbers faster than RSA and elliptic curve cryptography that underpins some of the blockchain security. However, since quantum technology develops rather swiftly, this problem requires some preventive measures in terms of #cybersecurity .
#quantumcomputers use quantum mechanisms to solve problems that will take a classical computer years to solve. For example, the actualization of signature schemes depending on the elliptic curves is dangerous because QC can break it exponentially. This vulnerability encompasses many of the internet protocols on which many blockchains rely, making the call for quantum-resistant solutions timely.
But not all cryptography is threatened. AES in particular and, more specifically, AES-256 continues to generally prove resistant more so given the fact that it is grounded on non-algebraic processes including bit permutation. Unfortunately, today’s quantum computers are not useful in breaking these structures and provide a solid ground for some encrypted methods.
Promising initiatives are already on the way to doing so. Gradually migrating to quantum-safe signatures is becoming part of the blockchains’ development strategies, so they can resist the evolution of QC. It’s crucial to argue that staying ahead of quantum developments allows the projects to prevent future threats that may be detrimental to ecosystems that support projects, thereby protecting users’ trust and system integrity.
This transition to quantum resistance also paves the way to #SocialMining for blockchain communities where people can engage in popularizing the advantages of secure encryption. Through sharing educational posts, making graphics or having general discussions about the effects of QC, the participants propagate the use of quantum-resistant solutions. Social Mining encourages these actions, thus helping to create a synergy for the decentralized world’s defence.
Quantum computing disrupts the existing business models but the threats can be managed once organizations start to act and involve their communities. But as we move into the future of blockchain, being quantum resistant will help safeguard its future, and the trust on which it is built.