2021 is proving a pivotal moment for quantum technology, as NIST prepares to announce its guidelines on quantum-resistant public-key cryptographic algorithms towards the end of the year. Throughout this time, we have made sure that PQShield continues to spread awareness of the quantum threat and the necessary steps to ensure a quantum secure future.
Quantum computing developments over the last few months have continued at pace, for instance with IBM announcing its first quantum computer physically built outside the US. These recent developments reflect the fast-approaching quantum threat, making it all the more pressing to draw attention to the issue. With this in mind, PQShield spoke at the Cryptography Track of the RSA conference, presenting the paper that our mathematicians jointly wrote with NIST.
Elsewhere, I spoke to CNBC about the coming NIST standards, what they mean, and the challenges facing businesses transitioning to a quantum-secure future. Speaking on the Slaughter and May podcast, I discussed the steps we must be taking now in order to stay quantum secure in the future.
We are proud that our hard work has been recognised, with PQShield being named one of WEF’s top 100 companies from around the world in its ‘Technology Pioneers of 2021’ and receiving a notable mention at the NSCS Cyber UK 21 CyberDen competition as one of the companies tackling the UK’s thorniest cybersecurity issues. We also reached the regional heats of the KPMG ‘Private Enterprise Tech Innovator’ competition, as well as receiving the CyberTech100 award.
More broadly, I also spoke to Sifted about how businesses can make the most out of the first funding round, drawing on PQShield’s own recent experience.
As we move towards the fourth round of NIST’s PQC standardisation process, we look forward to the opportunities ahead.