The Chilean company SeQure Quantum has introduced a post-quantum communications link between the Chilean National Electricity Coordinator (CEN), the agency that coordinates the operation of the country’s electricity system, and the sector’s operators, as announced by the company in a statement shared with the professional magazine Quantum Insider on May 25 this year.
This new link is an encryption-secured data transmission channel. Designed to counter quantum computer attacksunlike traditional encryption systems that such machines can eventually break. Additionally, SeQure Quantum says this is the first time this type has been installed in Chile’s critical electricity infrastructure.
This implementation combines three technologies:
- The first is quantum random number generation (QRNG).a technology that generates unpredictable numbers in the field where cryptographic systems rely on random numbers to generate secure keys.
- The second is post-quantum cryptography (PQC)That is, algorithms designed to resist attacks by quantum computers.
- The third is a high security encryption device Integrate both layers into the actual network communication.
The architecture was independently verified by DreamLab Technologies, which specializes in ethical hacking and offensive cybersecurity, the statement said.
Why electricity infrastructure?
The project targets an attack vector known as “harvest now, decrypt later.” Attackers today capture communications encrypted with classical cryptography and store them in the hope that they can be decrypted when sufficiently powerful quantum computers become available.
Communication between electrical system operators coordinates operations in real time, Its exposure represents both operational and national security risks.according to SeQure Quantum.
“This pilot allowed us to evaluate next-generation technologies aimed at enhancing the protection of strategic communications within electrical systems, incorporating features related to post-quantum cryptography and verifiable quantum entropy sources,” said CEN’s Patricio Leighton.
Paulina Assmann of SeQure Quantum argued that the project demonstrates that Chile is capable of developing and operating world-class quantum cybersecurity technology for critical infrastructure, placing it in line with countries that have already met the US National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) standards for the post-quantum transition.
Government accelerates adoption of post-quantum technologies…and what about Bitcoin?
Deployment to Chile would add to competition that other countries are conducting on a large scale. As reported by CriptoNoticias, the United States is preparing an executive order to coordinate investments, infrastructure, and commercialization of quantum technologies under a “whole-of-government” approach, with the participation of the Departments of Commerce, Energy, and Defense.
Meanwhile, within the framework of a five-year plan that defines quantum technology as a priority strategic area, China has launched the Wukong-180, a cloud-accessible 180-qubit quantum computer, and released its quantum operating system, Origin Pilot, for free public download.
While traditional infrastructure is moving in that direction, Bitcoin has yet to define how it will defend against eventual quantum threats. Proposals such as BIP-360 and BIP-361, which aim to introduce mechanisms to protect networks from quantum computers, are being discussed in the community, but no consensus has been reached. Some players in the ecosystem, such as cryptologist Adam Back, They believe the threat is not imminent and there is plenty of time. This is sufficient for an orderly transition.
(Tag Translation) Bitcoin (BTC)
