Balancing Privacy and Security: Lessons Learned from Telegram’s Controversy

Cybersecurity

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On Sunday August 25th, 2024, Pavel Durov, the 39-year-old Russian-born billionaire and CEO of Telegram was arrested at a French airport as part of a broad investigation into criminal activities on the messaging platform. Telegram’s non-cooperation to share data with investigators led to allegations that it may be inadvertently facilitating illegal activities such as money laundering, drug trafficking, and terrorism. Some people believe it’s politically motivated because Durov refused to provide authorities with the platform’s “decryption master key” for certain “secret messages”.

Telegram is one of the major social media platforms in the world having more than 950 million users. Its popularity is driven by its light censorship on the content posted and its heavy emphasis on secure communications. Hence the platform has been favoured by privacy/security conscious people and particularly those who want to stay anonymous.

However, Telegram’s cryptographic protocol is not truly end-to-end because the decryption key is not solely possessed by their users. Techies believe that Telegram has the ability to decrypt the communications of their users. Whether the arrest of Durov was driven by criminal, cybersecurity or political concerns, the likely motive is to force a backdoor to the encrypted messages and gain access to the personal information of the Telegram users.

From the point of view of cybersecurity, a truly secure system is a zero-trust system whereby no one other than the recipient(s) of the information shall have the ability to decrypt it.

Pavel Durov’s arrest exposes a major controversial point of discussion in the realm of digital security: to be totally secure or not to be? While total zero-trust security can be used to safeguard data and privacy, it can be exploited by criminals to induce illegal activity without the fear of being detected. To the contrary, a system with a backdoor can plug criminals but expose serious security if the backdoor is possessed by an adversary. The situation can be a global disaster when it’s deeming national security or warfare. This will surely become an alarming issue when the post-quantum era approaches.

We at IronCAP™ believe we provide a perfect balance between privacy and security in our solutions. The IronCAP X™ email security system is a good example of zero-trust end-to-end mechanism whereby only the recipient(s) of the emails have the ability to decrypt and read the messages. In other words, no authority including the IronCAP X™ system has any backdoor nor any master key. Also, IronCAP X™ is not a platform that allows content promotion or large group messaging, i.e., unlikely to be exploited for illegal activities. It’s tailored for privacy conscious users for their secure communications. It is a prime example of how security and privacy can coexist. Authenticity and privacy together offer a workable defense against the escalating problems in our post-quantum world.

Race Against Time: Preparing for The Inevitable Q-Day

Cybersecurity

Banner-3There is no questioning that the development of quantum computers will potentially enhance various aspects of our life. However, they also introduce problems that undermine the security of our data, threatening the cybersecurity we rely on.

“Q-Day” refers to the day when quantum computers reach the power and qubit reliability enough to render current encryption algorithms (e.g. RSA, ECC) useless, rendering digital data vulnerable to exploitation. Unless defensive protocols are put in place, this event could lead to detrimental consequences within financial networks, military systems, and societal infrastructures.

Earlier estimations suggested that Q-Day wouldn’t arrive until 2029. However, research indicates that improvements in qubit reliability is amplifying efficiency, shortening the expected date. Whether or not post-quantum cryptography is integrated into our technologies, the arrival of the Q-Day is accelerating without any means of slowing down.

The other impending threat is the concept of “Harvest Now, Decrypt Later”. This strategy involves stealing encrypted data with the intent of decrypting it in the foreseeable future when quantum computers with sufficient power and qubit reliability become operational.

Given this threat, transitioning to post-quantum cryptography becomes significantly more imperative. Any form of modern encryption could be vulnerable to decryption once the Q-Day arrives. For instance, compromised data regarding the functionalities of a nuclear weapon would be exploitable when quantum computers emerge, leading to widespread disruption on a global scale.

In response to this situation, we have developed IronCAPTM that offers a comprehensive collection of the most prevalent post-quantum cryptographies that have been standardized by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). These encryption and digital signature algorithms experience thorough testing to determine their effectiveness against quantum threats. IronCAPTM promises security, efficiency, and coherence for encryption/decryption/signing/verification/key-generation algorithms to reduce the time consumption as well as the storage space required to complete these processes.

Along with its quantum-safety, IronCAPTM also enhances efficiencies by taking advantage of modern CPUs such as Advanced Vector Extension 2 (AVX2) to allow seamless implementation of post-quantum security without altering computational structure, ensuring its implementations are accommodating.

IronCAPTM is more than just a technological advancement, it is an accessible, yet powerful doorway to a secure future promoting confidentiality within both our personal lives and the digital world. IronCAPTM works as the perfect guardian, guiding and protecting us as we transition into a post-quantum era!

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Could RSA be cracked in 2025? – it looks like a strong possibility!

Cybersecurity, Cybersecurity, IronCAP, Remote PC Software, Remote Support

An interesting prediction has come to our attention – the RSA encryption algorithm may be cracked in 2025, which is just around the corner.

Although 2025 is an indirect conclusion (if you ask ChatGPT how many qubits are required to crack RSA the answer comes back as 4000 and IBM’s development roadmap of 4000 qubit being sometimes 2025) the implications of such an event are significant, and it’s crucial to explore potential solutions to ensure the security of our digital world.

While this prediction may not be set in stone, it’s worth contemplating the possibilities and considering the measures we can take to protect our sensitive information. That’s where IronCAP™ comes into play. IronCAP™ is a cutting-edge, patent-protected, post-quantum cryptographic system that utilizes not only Post-quantum Cryptographic algorithms approved by NIST but also Goppa Code-based technology predicted to be included into the final approval list of NIST later in 2024.

What sets IronCAP™ apart is its proprietary subclass of (L,G), which not only enhances security but also provides faster cryptographic operations, including key generation, encryption, and decryption. These advancements make IronCAP™ a compelling solution for safeguarding our data in a post-quantum era.

Designed to withstand the threats posed by quantum computers, IronCAP™ offers robust post-quantum encryption that can protect our digital communications and sensitive information. With the potential cracking of RSA on the horizon, IronCAP™ presents itself as a powerful tool to maintain the integrity of our online transactions and secure our personal data.

To demonstrate the strength of IronCAP™ post-quantum encryption, we are proud to offer a live demonstration for the general public. This opportunity allows individuals to experience firsthand the capabilities of IronCAP™ and witness its effectiveness in protecting information from potential threats.

Find out more …
https://www.ironcap.ca/demo/

As we navigate the uncertainties of the future, it’s essential to stay informed and proactive in our approach to cybersecurity. IronCAP™ represents a significant step forward in ensuring the confidentiality and integrity of our digital world. So, let’s embrace the possibilities offered by post-quantum encryption and explore the future of cybersecurity with IronCAP™ as our steadfast companion.

Together, let us forge a path towards a more secure digital landscape, one where our information remains protected even in the face of emerging threats. Join us in this journey, and let your voice be heard as we navigate the ever-changing landscape of cybersecurity. Together, we can build a safer future.

With the world’s fastest supercomputers, it would take around 300 trillion years to break the 2048-bit RSA encryption. A quantum computer would be finished with a similar task in merely eight hours!

You need to act now!

We at IronCAP™ have been trying to educate businesses and individuals that Q-day (the day the first quantum hack is publicly recognized) is around the corner and everybody needs to gear up. Nation states and governments are already at it, how about you? To learn more, visit www.ironcap.ca.

IronCAP™ is our latest innovation for the post-quantum cybersecurity. This patent-protected, post-quantum cryptographic system is based on the Goppa Code-based cryptographic technology. It has embedded our proprietary subclass of (L, G) making it not only more secured but also has faster cryptographic operations (key generation, encryption, decryption) than the traditional Goppa Code-based technology (McEliece). We are offering a live demonstration for the general public to try and experience the strength of IronCAP™ post-quantum encryption easily. To learn more, visit www.ironcap.ca.

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Safeguarding AI: The Imperative for Quantum-Safe Encrypted Machine Learning

AI, Cybersecurity, Cybersecurity, IronCAP

In the rapidly evolving landscape of artificial intelligence, machine learning (ML) algorithms have become indispensable tools, shaping how organizations derive insights and make informed decisions. However, a critical concern persists – the lack of encryption in conventional ML algorithms poses serious privacy and security risks.

Unencrypted ML Algorithms: A Privacy Dilemma

It’s crucial to acknowledge that as of today, most ML algorithms operate in an unencrypted environment. This means that queries, results, and, significantly, the knowledge acquired during the learning process are left exposed. In essence, the crown jewel of organizations in the post-AI world – knowledge, including sensitive customer behavior data – remains vulnerable to exploitation.

Privacy Issues in Unencrypted Queries and Results

The unencrypted nature of queries and results in ML processes leads to severe privacy implications. Imagine a scenario where customer data, financial transactions, or strategic business insights are laid bare during communication between different components of an ML system. This lack of encryption opens the door to eavesdropping and interception, putting sensitive information at risk.

The Exposure of Knowledge: A Prime Target for Hackers

In the era where knowledge is power, the exposure of unencrypted ML knowledge becomes a prime target for hackers. Customer behavior patterns, proprietary algorithms, and other valuable insights acquired through ML processes become the coveted assets that malicious actors seek to exploit. The stakes are high, as organizations risk losing their competitive edge and compromising customer trust.

Quantum-Safe Encryption: The Path to Security

Amidst these challenges, there’s a ray of hope – the realization that we can create ML processes that are quantum-safe encrypted. By adopting our quantum-safe cryptographic techniques, organizations can fortify their ML algorithms against the looming threat of quantum computers, ensuring the confidentiality and integrity of their sensitive information.

Conclusion: Navigating the Quantum-Safe Future

In the race to unlock the full potential of machine learning, securing the knowledge acquired is paramount. As we step into the post-AI world, where data is king, adopting quantum-safe encrypted ML processes becomes not just a necessity but a strategic imperative. By fortifying our algorithms against emerging threats, we can usher in an era where innovation thrives, and organizations confidently harness the power of AI without compromising on security.

Remember, the journey towards quantum-safe encrypted ML is a dynamic one, requiring ongoing vigilance and adaptation to stay ahead in the ever-changing landscape of technology and security.

You need to act now!

We at IronCAP™ have been trying to educate businesses and individuals that Q-day (the day the first quantum hack is publicly recognized) is around the corner and everybody needs to gear up. Nation states and governments are already at it, how about you? To learn more, visit www.ironcap.ca.

IronCAP™ is our latest innovation for the post-quantum cybersecurity. This patent-protected, post-quantum cryptographic system is based on the Goppa Code-based cryptographic technology. It has embedded our proprietary subclass of (L, G) making it not only more secured but also has faster cryptographic operations (key generation, encryption, decryption) than the traditional Goppa Code-based technology (McEliece). We are offering a live demonstration for the general public to try and experience the strength of IronCAP™ post-quantum encryption easily. To learn more, visit www.ironcap.ca.

Quantum-1 (Mar 28 2023)

IBM’s Quantum Breakthrough: Condor and a Shift Towards Error-Resistant Computing

Cybersecurity, Cybersecurity, IronCAP

While this breakthrough represents a significant leap forward in computational power, it also poses challenges for traditional cryptographic systems – but don’t worry www.ironcap.ca has it covered!

Introduction:

IBM has reached a groundbreaking milestone in quantum computing with Condor, a quantum processor housing over 1,000 qubits. While this achievement represents a leap in computational power, IBM is also strategically shifting its focus to prioritize error resistance in quantum machines.

Condor’s Quantum Leap:

Unveiled on December 4th, Condor boasts 1,121 superconducting qubits arranged in a distinctive honeycomb pattern. This quantum processor builds on IBM’s previous achievements with machines like Eagle (127 qubits) and Osprey (433 qubits), tapping into quantum phenomena for unprecedented computational capabilities.

Addressing Quantum Errors:

Despite their potential, quantum states are delicate and prone to errors. IBM’s roadmap, which previously doubled qubit numbers annually, is now emphasizing the critical need for error correction in quantum computing. Introducing Heron, a chip with 133 qubits and a record-low error rate, IBM signals a commitment to overcoming quantum errors.

The Promise of qLDPC:

IBM researchers are exploring quantum low-density parity check (qLDPC) as an alternative error-correction scheme. This method aims to significantly reduce error rates, potentially allowing logical qubits to be created with fewer physical qubits. While optimism surrounds this approach, practical implementation with superconducting qubits remains a complex challenge.

Connectivity Challenges and Solutions:

Implementing qLDPC requires each qubit to be directly connected to at least six others, a challenge for traditional superconducting chips with fewer connections. IBM’s solution involves modifying the chip design to facilitate the additional connections required by the qLDPC scheme.

A New Quantum Roadmap:

IBM’s updated roadmap outlines a focus on achieving practical computations, such as simulating catalyst molecules, by the end of the decade. Despite acknowledged challenges, IBM Quantum’s Chief Technology Officer, Oliver Dial, expresses optimism about tangible progress towards realizing practical quantum computing.

Conclusion:

IBM’s Condor represents a significant stride in quantum computing, surpassing the 1,000 qubit milestone. The strategic shift towards error-resistant computing, coupled with innovations like Heron and exploration of qLDPC, signifies a maturation in quantum research. As IBM charts the course for practical quantum computations within the decade, the vision of quantum supremacy moves one step closer to reality.

IronCAP™ has an answer!

This significant milestone is a loud wakeup call to Q-Day – there is no time to wait! Organizations, especially those dealing with sensitive data and communications, should be proactive in adopting quantum-resistant encryption methods to safeguard their information against the potential threats posed by quantum computing advancements.

To learn more, visit www.ironcap.ca.

You need to act now!

We at IronCAP™ have been trying to educate businesses and individuals that Q-day (the day the first quantum hack is publicly recognized) is around the corner and everybody needs to gear up. Nation states and governments are already at it, how about you? To learn more, visit www.ironcap.ca.

IronCAP™ is our latest innovation for the post-quantum cybersecurity. This patent-protected, post-quantum cryptographic system is based on the Goppa Code-based cryptographic technology. It has embedded our proprietary subclass of (L, G) making it not only more secured but also has faster cryptographic operations (key generation, encryption, decryption) than the traditional Goppa Code-based technology (McEliece). We are offering a live demonstration for the general public to try and experience the strength of IronCAP™ post-quantum encryption easily. To learn more, visit www.ironcap.ca.

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The Looming Threat of Quantum Computers to Cybersecurity

Cybersecurity, Cybersecurity, IronCAP

Quantum computers have long seemed like a far-off technology of the future. But recent advances are bringing them closer to reality, posing a potentially catastrophic threat to cybersecurity.

According to a recent New York Times article, experts warn that powerful quantum computers could one day unravel the encryption that currently protects sensitive data and communications.

This could happen through quantum computers’ unparalleled ability to factor large numbers – a mathematical feat that conventional computers cannot achieve. Modern encryption relies on the extreme difficulty of factoring large prime numbers. But quantum computers could theoretically factor these numbers rapidly, allowing them to decrypt even the strongest encryption keys used today.

While truly capable quantum computers may still be years or decades away, their emergence could completely upend modern cryptography and security protocols. As the article describes, this could expose military secrets, financial data, infrastructure controls, and years’ worth of encrypted information harvested now by adversaries. According to US government officials and security experts, China, Russia and other nations are aggressively pursuing quantum computing research for this very purpose.

Quantum computing may seem like a distant threat, but experts urge treating it with utmost seriousness. Former NSA general counsel Glenn Gerstell calls it a “completely different kind of problem” that we’ve never faced before. While the likelihood of a encryption-breaking quantum computer materializing soon is under 1%, a catastrophe from such an invention could be devastating.

With so much at stake, the race is on between the US and its rivals to achieve quantum advantage first. But the gains are largely opaque due to secrecy surrounding quantum projects. For now, all we know is that quantum computing promises tremendous benefits as well as unprecedented threats to security if achieved recklessly or weaponized by malicious actors. More open collaboration and wise governance of this technology will be critical in coming years to manage the monumental risks.

The quantum era inches closer each day. We must take steps now to prevent an encryption apocalypse while harnessing quantum’s positives for society. The fate of modern security could hang in the balance.

You need to act now!

We at IronCAP™ have been trying to educate businesses and individuals that Q-day (the day the first quantum hack is publicly recognized) is around the corner and everybody needs to gear up. Nation states and governments are already at it, how about you? To learn more, visit www.ironcap.ca.

IronCAP™ is our latest innovation for the post-quantum cybersecurity. This patent-protected, post-quantum cryptographic system is based on the Goppa Code-based cryptographic technology. It has embedded our proprietary subclass of (L, G) making it not only more secured but also has faster cryptographic operations (key generation, encryption, decryption) than the traditional Goppa Code-based technology (McEliece). We are offering a live demonstration for the general public to try and experience the strength of IronCAP™ post-quantum encryption easily. To learn more, visit www.ironcap.ca.

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Prepare Now for the Quantum Computing Revolution

Cybersecurity, IronCAP, ,

Prepare Now for the Quantum Computing Revolution

The events of September 11, 2001 taught many lessons about disaster preparedness and business continuity planning. One story that illustrates this well involves Morgan Stanley and their empty office space in New Jersey.

In the months leading up to 9/11, Morgan Stanley had set up a fully functioning office space in New Jersey, complete with technology infrastructure and workstations. Yet this office sat entirely unused each day, serving no immediate purpose.

That is until the Twin Towers fell. When Morgan Stanley’s main offices were destroyed, they were able to quickly reroute operations through the New Jersey office. Within just three days, their systems were back online with minimal disruption to the business.

This was only possible because of Morgan Stanley’s foresight in developing a backup plan for an unknown potential crisis. The unused office space was an investment in preparedness for the unexpected.

Today’s businesses face a looming technological crisis in the rise of quantum computing. Though still years away, quantum computers threaten to upend cybersecurity by rendering current encryption methods obsolete. Organizations need to start preparing now for this disruption to avoid being caught off guard.

Just like Morgan Stanley’s unused office space, adopting new quantum-safe encryption like IronCAP requires investment even before the threat materializes. But this upfront cost pales in comparison to the massive impacts on business operations if quantum computers emerge without adequate security preparations in place.

The events of 9/11 demonstrated the critical need for contingency planning and getting ahead of future risks. Companies that want to withstand the next technological shift would be wise to heed this lesson. By taking action now, they can maintain continuity when the landscape inevitably evolves. Don’t wait for quantum computers to arrive to prepare – the time is now.

You need to act now!

We at IronCAP™ have been trying to educate businesses and individuals that Q-day (the day the first quantum hack is publicly recognized) is around the corner and everybody needs to gear up. Nation states and governments are already at it, how about you? To learn more, visit www.ironcap.ca.

IronCAP™ is our latest innovation for the post-quantum cybersecurity. This patent-protected, post-quantum cryptographic system is based on the Goppa Code-based cryptographic technology. It has embedded our proprietary subclass of (L, G) making it not only more secured but also has faster cryptographic operations (key generation, encryption, decryption) than the traditional Goppa Code-based technology (McEliece). We are offering a live demonstration for the general public to try and experience the strength of IronCAP™ post-quantum encryption easily. To learn more, visit www.ironcap.ca.

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The Future is Here: Commercially Available PQC Solutions for the Quantum Threat

Cybersecurity, , ,

The Future is Here: Commercially Available PQC Solutions for the Quantum Threat

The advent of quantum computers capable of breaking current public key cryptography is inevitable. While we may still be years away from this, forward-thinking companies are already developing quantum-safe solutions.

On a recent episode of the Root Causes podcast, Andrew Cheung of IronCAP discussed how his company is bringing post-quantum cryptography (PQC) to market today in various applications.

LISTEN HERE:
https://soundcloud.com/tim-callan/root-causes-330-end-to-end-pqc-in-use-today

IronCAP started working on PQC solutions in anticipation of the quantum threat over 5 years ago. They developed a toolkit that allows integrating PQC algorithms like Kyber and Dilithium into existing public key infrastructure.

Rather than wait for industry standards, IronCAP took the walled garden approach and implemented PQC within their own products first. For example, they now offer a PQC-enabled VPN and end-to-end encrypted email.

A project with cryptocurrency companies highlights how PQC can be applied selectively even with legacy infrastructure. While blockchain ledgers are quantum-safe, the private keys used to authorize transactions are vulnerable. IronCAP devised a way to implement PQC to protect these keys while maintaining compatibility with existing blockchains.

The key takeaway is that companies who recognize the quantum threat and control their own IT environments can start integrating PQC today. This allows high-value targets to mitigate the risk of “harvest now, decrypt later” attacks even before broad PQC standards and compatibility emerge.

So while fully universal PQC across the internet is still on the horizon, solutions for specific use cases are here today. IronCAP is leading the charge in commercially viable PQC, bringing quantum-safe security to early adopters.

As quantum computing advances, PQC will be crucial in all industries relying on data protection and integrity, like finance, healthcare, and defense. Companies have a choice – either leave sensitive data vulnerable to future decryption, or be proactive and integrate selective PQC safeguards now.

The message is clear: commercially viable PQC is available today thanks to innovative companies like IronCAP. The future of quantum-safe data protection is already here.

You need to act now!

We at IronCAP™ have been trying to educate businesses and individuals that Q-day (the day the first quantum hack is publicly recognized) is around the corner and everybody needs to gear up. Nation states and governments are already at it, how about you? To learn more, visit www.ironcap.ca.

IronCAP™ is our latest innovation for the post-quantum cybersecurity. This patent-protected, post-quantum cryptographic system is based on the Goppa Code-based cryptographic technology. It has embedded our proprietary subclass of (L, G) making it not only more secured but also has faster cryptographic operations (key generation, encryption, decryption) than the traditional Goppa Code-based technology (McEliece). We are offering a live demonstration for the general public to try and experience the strength of IronCAP™ post-quantum encryption easily. To learn more, visit www.ironcap.ca.

World’s First #QuantumSafe End-to-End #EmailSecurity Service for Enterprises

Cybersecurity

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IronCAP™ X v2.0 was developed with simplicity and security in mind.

The underlying technology is patent-protected providing end-to-end security for your emails against attacks by any bad actor. From the time your email is sent until the time it is received and read by the authenticated recipient it remains fully encrypted without any decryption along the way. This guarantees complete privacy. Using National Institute of Standards and Technology (“NIST”) approved algorithms IronCAP™ X v2.0 is safe from attacks by sophisticated hackers including those using Quantum Computers.

Incorporating an IronCAP™ protected email digital signature ensures the sender is the real sender and not an impersonated one. This provides an extra layer of security which helps solve the infamous email phishing issue, which is the major way used by hackers to hijack emails gaining access to your computer system and holding you for ransom.

IronCAP X v2.0 is offered in two versions. A free version is available for personal usage and a business version is available with central management tools for IT managers can be subscribed at $9.95 per month or $99.95 per year.

For more information and a free download visit https://www.ironcap.ca/ironcap-x/

You need to act now!

We at IronCAP™ have been trying to educate businesses and individuals that Q-day (the day the first quantum hack is publicly recognized) is around the corner and everybody needs to gear up. Nation states and governments are already at it, how about you? To learn more, visit www.ironcap.ca.

IronCAP™ is our latest innovation for the post-quantum cybersecurity. This patent-protected, post-quantum cryptographic system is based on the Goppa Code-based cryptographic technology. It has embedded our proprietary subclass of (L, G) making it not only more secured but also has faster cryptographic operations (key generation, encryption, decryption) than the traditional Goppa Code-based technology (McEliece). We are offering a live demonstration for the general public to try and experience the strength of IronCAP™ post-quantum encryption easily. To learn more, visit www.ironcap.ca.