Understanding the Importance of Crypto Visibility
In the realm of cybersecurity, the focus often revolves around intrusive attacks, hacks, and threats. However, a larger risk looms over us due to the potential failure of cryptography. The danger is amplified by the potential of advanced computers and quantum technology to decrypt sensitive data. This situation necessitates security professionals to prepare for the quantum eventuality. The first step towards this preparation is gaining visibility into the state of your cryptographic infrastructure.
The Role of Quantum Technology in Cybersecurity
The U.S. National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) is actively preparing new encryption algorithms to provide diversity and optionality in encrypting. Simultaneously, the National Cybersecurity Center of Excellence is assisting security professionals in planning for the migration to new, quantum-resistant cryptography. The potential speed of quantum technology in decrypting sensitive data raises the stakes for security professionals.
The Future of Encryption Algorithms
The protection of our digital assets begins with visibility into the state of our cryptographic infrastructure. The cryptography we rely on often turns out to be deficient. When it comes to cybersecurity, most people focus on detectors—tools to spot intrusions. This detection-first approach often leaves organizations without adequate visibility and forensic ability to determine what happened.
The Need for a Zero Trust Network
Visibility works both ways. Most internal systems use a basic software protocol to store passwords and usernames as part of authenticating a user’s right to access applications or files. However, a single user clicking on a phishing link can allow a hacker inside the network. The hacker can then spread quickly, exploiting weaknesses and accessing data. This situation underscores the importance of implementing a zero trust network access philosophy to make it harder for the adversary to gain deeper access.
Assessing Cryptographic Risks in Real-Time
Taking proactive steps toward the visibility and auditability of the network is crucial. First, you need to discover your cryptographic risks. Understand when, where, and how encryption is used within your organization and, most importantly, where encryption is deficient or outright lacking. Second, assess cryptographic risks in near real time, including monitoring the status of security certificates and crypto handshakes and communications sessions. Lastly, examine and validate your security policies vis-à-vis ongoing cryptographic changes. This will provide full and continuous crypto management and control as you move toward modernizing encryption standards.
Enterprise data is only safe if encryption is working. When you’re able to discover risks, assess threats, and validate security policies, you’ll be better prepared to defend when the adversary eventually enters your network.
For more information on the importance of crypto visibility in the world of cryptocurrency, visit our previous discussion on the topic. Learn more about the team behind these advancements at Quantum Xchange, the leading provider of post-quantum crypto-agility solutions.
