FAQS

Why is it important to prepare for the era of quantum computing?

Quantum computers have the potential to solve complex problems that are currently infeasible for classical computers. However, they also pose a significant threat to the security of organizations, countries, and individuals. It is crucial to prepare for the era of quantum computing and take necessary measures to protect sensitive information.

What risks do quantum-powered attacks pose to organizations and individuals?

In the face of quantum-powered attacks, our mission is to ensure trust in the digital world. We believe that proactive preparation is essential to safeguarding sensitive information and maintaining the integrity of our digital systems.

How will quantum computing affect the security of our digital systems?

As quantum computing advances, the public key infrastructure that underpins our modern digital economy, communications, and personal privacy will become vulnerable to attacks. This raises concerns about maintaining trust in our digital systems.

What are the implications of quantum computing for the public key infrastructure?

Quantum computing poses a significant threat to the current public key infrastructure (PKI) as it can break widely-used encryption algorithms like RSA and ECC, compromising the security of online communications and transactions. To mitigate this risk, organizations must transition to quantum-resistant cryptographic algorithms to maintain the integrity of their PKI in a post-quantum computing era.

What is data harvesting with regards to post-quantum cryptography (PQC)?

Data harvesting, in the context of post-quantum encryption, refers to the collection and storage of sensitive information with the intent to decrypt it in the future using quantum computers. Post-quantum cryptography is designed to protect data from the potential threat posed by quantum computers, which have the ability to break many traditional encryption methods. Data harvesting involves capturing encrypted data today with the hope of exploiting quantum computing capabilities once they become available. Post-quantum cryptographyaims to safeguard data even in the era of powerful quantum computers.

How does post-quantum cryptography (PQC) protect against data harvesting?

Post-quantum cryptography employs cryptographic algorithms to protect organizations against attacks from both classical and quantum computers. PQC algorithms are designed to stop attacks that could potentially break traditional encryption methods, such as Shor's algorithm, which can efficiently factor large numbers on a quantum computer. By using PQC for archiving files or when exchanging files, organizations can ensure that data collected through potential data harvesting efforts remains confidential and protected, even when faced with the future capabilities of quantum computing.

What is Messaging Layer Security(MLS)?

Messaging Layer Security (MLS) is a security protocol designed to protect data communications, particularly in group messaging or collaboration platforms. It ensures the confidentiality, integrity, and authenticity of messages exchanged between multiple participants.

How does MLS differ from traditional encryption methods?

MLS is different from traditional encryption because it's specifically tailored for secure group communication. It offers forward secrecy, post-compromise security, and efficient key management for large groups, making it ideal for modern messaging applications.

What are the key benefits of using MLS?

MLS offers several advantages, including:

Strong Security: MLS provides end-to-end encryption, protecting messages from unauthorized access.
Forward Secrecy: Even if a participant's keys are compromised, past messages remain secure.
Group Communication: It's designed for secure group chats, ensuring all members can communicate privately.
Efficient Key Management: MLS simplifies key distribution and management, even in large groups.

How does MLS ensure message confidentiality?

MLS uses strong encryption algorithms to protect messages so that only authorized recipients can decrypt and read them. This ensures that sensitive information remains confidential.

Can MLS protect against eavesdropping and interception?

Yes, MLS is designed to protect against eavesdropping and interception. It encrypts messages in transit, making it extremely difficult for unauthorized parties to intercept and decipher the content.

What is "post-compromise security" in MLS?

Post-compromise security is a key feature of MLS. Even if an attacker gains access to a participant's keys or device, they won't be able to compromise the security of past messages, thanks to forward secrecy.

Is MLS suitable for both small and large group chats?

Yes, MLS is suitable for both small and large group chats. It's designed to efficiently manage keys, making it a scalable solution for various group sizes.

Can MLS be used in combination with other security measures?

MLS can complement other security measures, but it's designed as a comprehensive security solution. However, organizations can integrate it with existing security protocols to enhance overall protection.

Is MLS open-source and widely adopted?

Yes, MLS is often implemented as an open-source protocol, making it accessible to developers and widely adopted in many secure messaging applications.

How can I implement MLS in my messaging application?

Implementing MLS requires expertise in secure protocols. SENTRIQS is ready to provide consultation and advisory services to assist your organization plan for the implementation of MLS. Working with GLYPH which has a full MLS capability, or through SENTRIQS EPS, we can assist your teams integrate our combination of PQE and MLS into your messaging platform.