New Era of Cybersecurity in Slovakia Based on NIST Post-Quantum Cryptography Standards
Post-quantum cryptography refers to cryptographic algorithms designed to protect against attacks from quantum computers.
Four standards (FIPS 203, 204, 205, and 206), developed by NIST (National Institute for Standards and Technology USA), have been completed for post-quantum cryptography: post-quantum cryptography refers to cryptographic algorithms designed to protect against attacks from quantum computers. As Slovakia prepares for quantum threats, these standards will be key in the country's cybersecurity ecosystem.
"A quantum revolution is underway, and we must be prepared to adapt critical infrastructure in Slovakia as soon as possible," says Matej Michalko, Chairman of the Supervisory Board of the Slovak Critical Infrastructure Association. "The immediate deployment of NIST post-quantum cryptographic standards is a strategic matter to support our national security and economic stability." In a recommendation dated April 11, 2024, the European Commission calls on EU member states to implement a common transition plan for post-quantum cryptography. Although no deadlines have been confirmed, Slovakia has already responded to challenges in quantum technology research and development through academic institutions and public-private partnerships.
The "harvest now, decrypt later" threat is very real – adversaries may want to accumulate today's encrypted data and decrypt it when quantum computers are capable of doing so. In Slovakia, financial institutions, telecommunications providers, and government agencies should prioritize transitioning to quantum-resistant encryption methods to protect sensitive information and critical systems from quantum threats.
The state is particularly concerned about long-term sensitive data, from personal identification information to state secrets and financial records. This will require significant investments in new infrastructure, training, and compliance frameworks.
Author: Matej Michalko, founder and CEO of Decent Cybersecurity, Chairman of the supervisory board of the Slovak Critical Infrastructure Association
Source: Michalko, Matej. “Nová éra kybernetickej bezpečnosti na Slovensku založená na štandardoch postkvantovej kryptografie NIST.” DefenceNews.sk, April 22, 2025. https://www.defencenews.sk/kyberbezpecnost/clanok/749300-nova-era-kybernetickej-bezpecnosti-na-slovensku-zalozena-na-standardoch-postkvantovej-kryptografie-nist/?utm_source=defencenews&utm_medium=hp-box&utm_campaign=shp_3clanok_box.
Accessed 22nd April 2025.
