With quantum computing on the horizon, the secure email provider Tutanota is taking proactive steps to ensure the security of data in the face of evolving encryption challenges. As quantum computers progress towards solving currently unsolvable problems, the risk of breaching existing encryption methods and compromising sensitive information grows. In response, Tutanota has launched PQDrive, a project aimed at creating a post-quantum secure cloud storage solution. By integrating quantum-resistant cryptography into their offerings, Tutanota seeks to protect individuals’ and businesses’ data privacy and security in the era of quantum computing.
Tutanota, a leading provider of secure email services, is taking decisive action to stay ahead of the cryptography game as quantum computing advances toward becoming a reality. Quantum computers have the potential to crack current encryption methods that are considered secure, jeopardizing the confidentiality of encrypted data and putting sensitive information at risk. This could have far-reaching consequences, impacting various aspects of daily life, including online banking and the privacy of individuals and businesses.
Recognizing the urgency of quantum-resistant encryption, Tutanota has embarked on a mission to ensure data security in the present and the future. Matthias Pfau, co-founder of Tutanota, emphasized the importance of post-quantum secure encryption, stating that Tutanota is committed to being one step ahead in securing data against the advancements in quantum computing.
While fully implemented quantum computing solutions may still be a few years away, the potential risks to privacy are already significant. Encryption developments typically require substantial time to mature and become fully operational. The existing encryption methods will inevitably become obsolete, leaving individuals and organizations vulnerable to data breaches, government surveillance, and cybercriminal activities aimed at exploiting compromised security.
Concerns about data security in the face of quantum computing have not gone unnoticed. The U.S. National Institute for Standards and Technology (NIST) began working towards standardizing quantum-resistant algorithms in 2016. Virtual private network (VPN) providers, including NordVPN, are also actively exploring ways to make their services quantum-safe.
To combat the privacy and security risks associated with quantum computing, Tutanota has secured a €1.5 million grant from the German government and partnered with The University of Wuppertal to launch its latest project, PQDrive. The primary objective of PQDrive is to develop an end-to-end encrypted cloud storage solution that remains secure even in the face of quantum computers.
The envisioned product, TutaDrive, aims to combine the full sovereignty of local storage with the advantages of cloud storage. By creating a secure drive solution, Tutanota seeks to address the vulnerabilities of cloud computing, which has become a prime target for cyber threats. Recent studies indicate that approximately 90% of cybersecurity professionals are concerned about data loss, leakage, and breaches of privacy and confidentiality. Tutanota’s innovative approach aims to mitigate these risks by providing users with a secure and quantum-resistant cloud storage solution.
To achieve this, Tutanota plans to employ a hybrid encryption approach. All data stored in TutaDrive will be encrypted using both classical and post-quantum proof algorithms, providing an additional layer of protection. This approach allows the new post-quantum algorithms to prove their effectiveness over time, ensuring data security in the evolving quantum computing landscape.
While Tutanota has already made progress in developing post-quantum resistant email and calendar apps with PQMail, the PQDrive project presents unique challenges due to the larger file sizes involved. The team aims to find efficient and performant solutions that enable secure encryption and decryption, even on mobile devices with limited computing power.
The Race Is On: We are launching the development of a post-quantum secure cloud with €1.5 million grant! ?
With post-quantum secure encryption we will make sure to stay ahead of quantum computers – which will soon be able to break current algorithms.https://t.co/kTzgahjZvE
— Tutanota (@TutanotaTeam) July 3, 2023
Although fully secure and post-quantum resistant cloud storage is still some distance away, Tutanota’s PQDrive project represents a significant step forward. The company expects to create approximately 30 new jobs in Hannover over the next three years, further reinforcing its commitment to technological innovation and countering future security threats.
Matthias Pfau acknowledges that the battle between man and machine is underway. The goal is to integrate quantum-safe encryption seamlessly into Tutanota’s cloud solution, TutaDrive, ensuring widespread usability while quantum computers grapple with the technology without compromising data security.
As the fight between hackers and security experts continues, the release of this technology marks only the beginning. Both sides will continue to push boundaries, emphasizing the ongoing need for innovation and vigilance in the ever-evolving landscape of cybersecurity.
Tutanota’s PQDrive project showcases the company’s dedication to staying ahead of the curve in the face of quantum computing. By developing a post-quantum secure cloud storage solution, Tutanota aims to protect individuals’ and businesses’ data privacy in an era where encryption methods are at risk of being compromised. As the battle between man and machine unfolds, Tutanota remains committed to integrating quantum-resistant encryption into its offerings, safeguarding data and empowering users to adapt to future security threats.
