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Nobody knows if quantum secure cryptography will even work

Why upgrade if PQ signatures are not yet proven? The dirty secret of efforts to upgrade blockchains to post-quantum cryptography is that no one is sure if  any  of them work. None of the signatures being considered by major blockchains as quantum-resistant upgrades have been 100% proven to work. Until a quantum computer is invented, we won’t know for certain if they can successfully protect against an attack. Some may fall to an attack even before Q Day using existing computer technology. The National Institute of Standards and Technology tested 69 post-quantum candidate algorithms, and two of them — Rainbow and SIKE — were broken with classical computers during testing. The three digital signature schemes it recommends are its best guess as to which ones are most likely to survive a quantum attack. It selected the lattice-based CRYSTALS-Dilithium (ML-DSA) as the primary scheme, another lattice-based scheme called Falcon (FN-DSA) for use cases that demand smaller signatures an...
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The Evolution and Impact of Technology on Society

 echnology has become an inseparable part of modern life, shaping how we communicate, work, learn, and interact with the world. From the invention of the wheel to the rise of artificial intelligence, technological advancements have continuously redefined human capabilities and societal structures. This article explores the historical progression of technology, its transformative effects across various sectors, and the ethical considerations it raises.

Historical Progression of Technology The history of technology is a testament to human ingenuity. Early innovations, such as stone tools and fire, laid the foundation for survival and societal development. The Agricultural Revolution introduced farming tools, enabling settled communities and the rise of civilizations. The Industrial Revolution marked a turning point with mechanization, steam engines, and mass production, drastically altering economies and labor dynamics.

The 20th century witnessed exponential growth in technology, with breakthroughs like electricity, automobiles, and telecommunications. The advent of computers in the mid-1900s set the stage for the Digital Revolution, which introduced the internet, mobile devices, and cloud computing. Today, emerging technologies like artificial intelligence (AI), blockchain, and quantum computing are pushing boundaries further, creating a hyper-connected, data-driven world.

Transformative Effects Across Sectors 1. Communication Technology has revolutionized communication, making it instantaneous and borderless. Social media platforms, email, and messaging apps have transformed personal and professional interactions. Video conferencing tools, accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic, have made remote collaboration seamless, reshaping workplace dynamics.

2. Healthcare Medical technology has improved diagnostics, treatment, and patient care. Innovations like MRI machines, robotic surgery, and telemedicine have enhanced accuracy and accessibility. AI-powered tools assist in disease prediction and drug development, while wearable devices enable real-time health monitoring.

3. Education E-learning platforms, digital textbooks, and virtual classrooms have democratized education. Students worldwide can access courses from top institutions, breaking geographical barriers. Interactive tools like augmented reality (AR) and gamification are making learning more engaging and personalized.

4. Business and Industry Automation and data analytics have optimized supply chains, reducing costs and improving efficiency. E-commerce platforms have transformed retail, offering consumers convenience and choice. Blockchain technology is enhancing transparency in transactions, while AI-driven customer service tools improve user experiences.

5. Transportation From electric vehicles to autonomous cars, transportation is undergoing a radical shift. Ride-sharing apps and GPS navigation have made commuting more efficient, while advancements in aerospace, such as reusable rockets, are opening new frontiers in space exploration.

Ethical and Societal Considerations Despite its benefits, technology raises ethical dilemmas. Data privacy concerns have intensified with the rise of surveillance and big data. The digital divide exacerbates inequality, as those without access to technology fall behind. Automation threatens job displacement, necessitating reskilling initiatives.

AI and machine learning pose questions about bias, accountability, and the potential for misuse in warfare or misinformation. Environmental impacts, such as e-waste and energy consumption from data centers, also demand sustainable solutions.

The Future of Technology The future holds immense potential, with innovations like brain-computer interfaces, smart cities, and renewable energy technologies poised to redefine society. However, responsible development and regulation will be crucial to ensure equitable benefits and mitigate risks.

As technology continues to evolve, its integration into daily life will deepen, presenting both opportunities and challenges. Balancing progress with ethical considerations will be essential to harness its full potential for the betterment of humanity. The key lies in fostering collaboration between policymakers, technologists, and society to create a future where technology serves as a force for good.

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Nobody knows if quantum secure cryptography will even work

Why upgrade if PQ signatures are not yet proven? The dirty secret of efforts to upgrade blockchains to post-quantum cryptography is that no one is sure if  any  of them work. None of the signatures being considered by major blockchains as quantum-resistant upgrades have been 100% proven to work. Until a quantum computer is invented, we won’t know for certain if they can successfully protect against an attack. Some may fall to an attack even before Q Day using existing computer technology. The National Institute of Standards and Technology tested 69 post-quantum candidate algorithms, and two of them — Rainbow and SIKE — were broken with classical computers during testing. The three digital signature schemes it recommends are its best guess as to which ones are most likely to survive a quantum attack. It selected the lattice-based CRYSTALS-Dilithium (ML-DSA) as the primary scheme, another lattice-based scheme called Falcon (FN-DSA) for use cases that demand smaller signatures an...
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