A new project called PQC4eMRTD (Post-Quantum Cryptography for electronic Machine-Readable Travel Documents) has been launched to tackle the growing security risks posed by quantum computing. Funded by the European Union under its Digital Europe Programme, the project is coordinated by Infineon Technologies AG, with key partners including Thales, CryptoNext Security, the Barcelona Supercomputing Center, and the Institute for Comparative Law in Slovenia.
The initiative focuses on creating and promoting quantum-resistant (QR) cryptographic protocols for electronic travel documents (eMRTDs), such as electronic passports, which are increasingly vulnerable to quantum threats.
The project aims to advance research in post-quantum cryptography (PQC) and work toward international standards for QR protocols. Additionally, it will encourage collaboration across sectors to help address the challenges of transitioning to PQC. The goal is to lay the foundation for a secure, quantum-resistant infrastructure in Europe.
With quantum computing expected to make significant advances in the coming years, including a potential tenfold increase in qubit counts by 2026, the PQC4eMRTD project highlights the urgency of upgrading cryptographic systems. By leading this effort, Europe aims to set the standard for global security in the face of emerging quantum threats.
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