SandboxAQ, a leading company in the field of cybersecurity, has achieved a significant milestone as the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) officially added their Hamming Quasi-Cyclic (HQC) algorithm to its suite of post-quantum cryptographic (PQC) standards. This news was announced by the company today, marking a major step forward in the development of quantum-resistant encryption standards.
The inclusion of the HQC algorithm makes it the fifth algorithm selected by NIST as part of their ongoing efforts to create quantum-resistant encryption standards. Of the five algorithms selected, three will be used for digital signature purposes, while HQC and ML-KEM will focus on securing the confidentiality of communications, protecting vital components such as Internet traffic, cellular networks, payment systems, and critical infrastructure.
This development is a significant achievement for SandboxAQ, as it is the second time one of their algorithms has been selected by NIST, following the inclusion of SPHINCS+ in 2022. The selection of HQC by NIST underscores SandboxAQ’s increasing influence in shaping global standards for quantum-safe cryptography.
The HQC algorithm is a key encapsulation mechanism designed to protect encryption key exchanges from quantum-enabled attacks. Unlike traditional public-key cryptosystems like RSA and elliptic-curve cryptography (ECC), which are vulnerable to quantum computing, HQC relies on error-correcting codes, making it resistant to quantum threats. NIST’s final selection report highlighted HQC’s strong security guarantees, computational efficiency, and scalable performance, positioning it as a robust candidate for widespread adoption.
Carlos Aguilar Melchor, chief cybersecurity scientist at SandboxAQ, emphasized the importance of standardization in cryptography and highlighted the role of HQC in securing global communications. He mentioned that HQC is one of only two protocols safeguarding the confidentiality of nearly all global communications, showcasing its significance in the field of cybersecurity.
The addition of HQC to the NIST standards suite represents a significant progression in the global transition to quantum-resilient cybersecurity. It solidifies SandboxAQ’s reputation as a pioneer in the industry, combining innovative cryptographic research with practical solutions for both the public and private sectors.
In addition to their contributions to cryptographic standards, SandboxAQ offers enterprise-grade cryptography management through their flagship product, AQtive Guard. AQtive Guard provides deep visibility into cryptographic assets through an AI-driven engine, helping organizations identify vulnerabilities, ensure compliance, and mitigate risks associated with cryptographic assets.
With HQC now part of the NIST standard and AQtive Guard driving secure deployments, SandboxAQ continues to lead the way in preparing the digital world for the quantum era. Their commitment to innovation and cybersecurity sets them apart as a key player in the ever-evolving landscape of digital security.
Overall, the inclusion of the HQC algorithm by NIST underscores SandboxAQ’s leadership in post-quantum security and their dedication to advancing the field of quantum-resistant encryption standards. This development marks a significant milestone for both the company and global cybersecurity as a whole.