Mathematics Professor: Public Key Cryptosystems Should Be Replaced by Quantum-Resistant Alternatives

PANews reported on May 20 that Professor Massimiliano Sala from the University of Trento in Italy recently discussed the future of Blockchain with the Ripple team, particularly the potential threat of quantum computing to cryptographic technology. Professor Sala emphasized that the maturity of quantum computer technology could pose a serious threat to existing encryption methods, thereby risking the entire blockchain technology system. He pointed out that quantum computers will be able to easily solve the fundamental problems of digital signatures, undermining the security mechanisms of user assets on blockchain platforms. He introduced the concept of "Q-Day," the moment when quantum computers become powerful and accessible enough for malicious actors to break traditional encryption methods.

While this will have profound implications for any field where data security is crucial—including emergency services, infrastructure, banking, and defense—it theoretically could destroy the world of cryptocurrencies and blockchain. Sala suggested that to address this potential risk, all traditional public key cryptosystems should be replaced with systems capable of withstanding quantum attacks. Although practical quantum computers capable of such operations have not yet emerged, governments and research institutions worldwide are already preparing for the arrival of Q-Day. Professor Sala expressed satisfaction with the progress in the field of quantum computing and recommended that blockchain developers maintain close collaboration with encryption experts who understand modern system quantum protection standards and innovations to jointly face this challenge.