Scientists in China are aiming to create a communication protocol to help protect traditional encryption methods from quantum computer attacks.

Chinese scientists recently presented a draft paper at an internal event in Sweden showing their attempts to make a “quantum-proof” communication protocol.

Once ready, the protocol will help agencies and governments around the world defend themselves should an adversary try to use quantum computers to break traditional methods of encrypting communications.

State News Agency of China Xinhua reported that the draft project presented at the event was unanimously approved by all participants. According to the report, this would lead Chinese scientists to lead the global initiative to develop the “quantum proof” protocol.

Quantum Protocol for Communications Security

According to a report by South China Morning Post (SCMP), Zhang Lulu – part of the Chinese delegation that was present at the event in Sweden – said their proposal aims to provide guidance for “migrating global communications networks to post-quantum cryptography”.

The protocol, in simpler terms, aims to ensure sufficient security for communication networks in a world where quantum technology is widely used.

The preventive approach aims to ensure that data security can be maintained across the globe.

Zhang is also general secretary of China’s WAPI (Wireless LAN Authentication and Privacy Infrastructure) Alliance, which is the country’s first and largest industry group focused on network security.

Although the widespread adoption of quantum computers has not yet occurred globally, there is a chance that the advanced technology could be used to break the cryptographic systems that are prevalent today.

expert fear that tomorrow’s quantum computers – the most advanced, that is – could be used to hack and steal encrypted data. Once in the hands of enemies, this data can be used to accomplish various purposes.

Therefore, experts aim to develop a quantum system that can survive and deter attacks that may happen in the future.

And the US is working on the same problem

Earlier this month, the National Institute of Standards and Cryptography (NIST) released three post-quantum encryption algorithm standards that were built to withstand cyber attacks from quantum computers.

The US Department of Commerce’s NIST said these standards can be used to “secure a wide range of electronic information, from confidential email messages to the electronic commerce transactions that power the modern economy.”

The algorithms were ready for immediate use, according to a NIST release.

The standards—which contain the computer code of encryption algorithms, instructions on how to implement them, and their intended uses—are the result of an eight-year effort managed by NIST.

“Quantum computing technology could become a force for solving many of society’s toughest problems, and the new standards represent NIST’s commitment to ensuring that it will not simultaneously disrupt our security.” said Under Secretary of Commerce for Standards and Technology and NIST Director Laurie E. Locascio.

“These finalized standards are the cornerstone of NIST’s efforts to protect our confidential electronic information.”