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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 , updated 19 April 2024

Quantum computers could crack existing encryption methods

Jvphoto/Alamy

Update: On 18 April, Yilei Chen announced an issue with his algorithm which he does not know how to fix. This means the algorithm does not undermine the mathematics behind post-quantum cryptography. The issue was found independently by researchers Hongxun Wu and Thomas Vidick.

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…

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