Quantum-Resistant Security for IoT and M2M Devices
Imagine a lock that’s been guarding your front door for decades. It’s served you well, but now thieves have invented high-tech tools that can pick it in seconds. As quantum computing advances this is the challenge facing today’s encryption methods, including those used by Internet of Things (IoT) and Machine-to-Machine (M2M) devices – from smart thermostats to industrial sensors. Quantum computing presents a growing and long-term danger to devices using existing cryptographic methods which are not breakable by today’s classical (binary-based) supercomputers. Quantum computers, machines that leverage quantum physics to solve problems far faster than traditional computers, are capable of solving complex mathematical problems orders of magnitude faster and will therefore make today’s security methods obsolete.
What Is Quantum-Resistant Security?
Quantum-resistant security refers to encryption methods designed to withstand attacks from quantum computers. Unlike today’s common encryption (e.g., RSA or ECC), which relies on math problems even supercomputers struggle with, quantum-resistant algorithms use new types of math that quantum computers can’t easily crack. Think of it like upgrading from a simple padlock to a biometric scanner: both secure your belongings, but one is far harder to bypass with future technology.
Why Does Quantum Computing Threats Matter for IoT and M2M Devices?
IoT devices-such as smart home sensors and actuators, or medical sensors, and M2M devices such as building automation and industrial control system operational technology (OT), are especially vulnerable to quantum attacks for three reasons:
- Long Lifespans: Many IoT and M2M devices operate for 10+ years. A smart meter installed today could still be in use when quantum computers become mainstream.
- Limited Upgradability: Many IoT and M2M devices can’t easily receive software updates, leaving them stuck with outdated security. End-of-Life (EoL) products still in use decades later no longer have software updates provided by the manufacturers.
- Critical Roles: Compromised IoT and M2M devices can lead to power outages, process disruption, data leaks, or even physical harm in healthcare or critical infrastructure.
How Quantum Computers Can Break Current IoT Security
Today’s IoT devices use encryption methods like RSA or ECC, which rely on math problems such as factoring large numbers. Many M2M devices use communication protocols such as BACnet, Modbus, or DNP3 that have no encryption or device authentication. Here are some issues:
- Shor’s Algorithm: A quantum computer could use this to break RSA encryption in minutes instead of millennia. Read more about Shor’s Algorithm.
- Fake Signatures: Quantum tech can forge digital signatures, letting hackers impersonate legitimate devices.
See related posts:
Protecting Operational Technology from Quantum Computing
Quantum Computing is Decades Faster than the Best Supercomputers
Without quantum-resistant protection, hackers with quantum computing tools could:
- Disrupt industrial operations and manufacturing processes
- Shut down city traffic lights or power grids.
- Steal confidential data
- Manipulate medical devices or disrupt healthcare facilities.
How Quantum-Resistant Security Works
Quantum-resistant algorithms replace vulnerable math problems with new approaches that even quantum computers struggle to solve. Common methods include:
| Method | How It Works |
| Lattice-Based | Uses complex grid structures to hide data |
| Hash-Based | Relies on one-way mathematical functions |
| Code-Based | Encrypts data using error-correcting codes |
Why Act Now to Implement Quantum-Resistant Security?
- IoT and M2M Devices Are Already at Risk: Many IoT devices use weak or default passwords, or outdated encryption, making them easy targets even before quantum computers arrive. Many M2M devices have no authentication or data encryption, making both the devices and communications vulnerable today.
- Retrofitting Takes Time: Upgrading billions of existing devices will take decades.
- Regulations Are Coming: Governments are starting to mandate quantum-resistant standards for critical infrastructure.
DOME and Quantum-Resistant Security
Veridify Security (formerly SecureRF) has been providing security for RFID, M2M, IoT, and low-resource connected devices for close to 20 years. Veridify’s DOME solution can be embedded into OEM devices to provide zero-trust, quantum-resistant security including authentication and encryption, as well as secure firmware updates. Read more about DOME, watch a demo video, or contact us to learn more.
The Bottom Line
Quantum-resistant security isn’t just a buzzword – it is a necessary upgrade to protect IoT and M2M devices from tomorrow’s threats. By adopting this capability now, hackers will be greatly thwarted to exploit quantum tech to destabilize power grids, breach medical devices, or disrupt critical processes.
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