As quantum computing advances threaten to crack current encryption standards, Apple is taking preemptive measures to safeguard iMessage users. The tech giant recently announced it will implement post-quantum cryptography in iMessage, offering unprecedented Level 3 security.
While not an immediate threat, quantum computers are expected to be able to decrypt the most widely-used encryption within a decade. To get ahead of this risk, Apple is introducing PQ3, its most advanced cryptographic protocol yet.
PQ3 adds ongoing post-quantum rekeying to iMessage’s existing end-to-end encryption. This will provide robust protection against future “Harvest Now, Decrypt Later” attacks, where hackers steal data now planning to crack it later with better technology.
Apple claims PQ3 surpasses the post-quantum cryptography used by other secure messaging apps like WhatsApp and Signal. However, Signal disputed that characterization, arguing its approach is currently more feasible at scale.
The heightened iMessage security via PQ3 will roll out in early March alongside Apple’s next round of software updates. With this move, Apple aims to keep its users’ communications safeguarded against tomorrow’s quantum threats.
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