2 days ago
Certes launch quantum-safe technology to nullify stolen data
Certes has announced the availability of a quantum-safe data protection approach that aims to render stolen data useless to attackers.
With cybercrime costs predicted to exceed USD $10.5 trillion by the end of 2025, the cybersecurity sector faces growing challenges, especially as quantum computing rapidly evolves. Certes has stated that its solution is designed to address this escalating threat by making intercepted data indecipherable even to powerful quantum-enabled adversaries.
The company's analysis compares modern cyberattacks to advanced bank heists, where criminals focus on stealing sensitive data, especially while it is in transit. Traditional security measures, according to Certes, typically aim to keep threat actors out via perimeter defences. However, the firm's new focus is on neutralising the value of any data that is intercepted, protecting it throughout its lifecycle. "You don't stop a heist by just locking the doors; you make sure the robbers leave with nothing they can use. That's exactly what we're doing. Even if attackers gain access, the data is quantum-protected, scrambled, and completely useless to them," said Simon Pamplin, CTO at Certes.
Certes reports that more than 80% of data breaches occur during the transmission of data, and 82% take advantage of weaknesses in either perimeter or internal systems. This vulnerability, combined with the increasing sophistication of cybercriminal tactics, means that conventional security postures may become obsolete as quantum computing capabilities advance.
The company's patented Data Protection and Risk Mitigation (DPRM) solution is built on quantum-safe algorithms and provides end-to-end data security. This includes data in use, at rest, and in transit. Certes distinguishes its solution from existing tools by focusing on making the data itself secure, rather than relying on the strength of the surrounding network perimeter.
Simon Pamplin said, "We're preparing clients for the next era of cybersecurity; one where perimeter defences won't cut it. Quantum resilience is critical, but so is the shift in mindset: it's not just about keeping data safe, but making sure that if cybercriminals ever access it, it's useless to them."
Certes extends the analogy of dye packs used by banks to thwart robbers. Just as dye packs make stolen banknotes unusable, Certes aims to ensure that attackers cannot benefit from intercepted data, as it remains encrypted and undecipherable. The firm describes its approach as providing a digital equivalent of a dye pack, neutralising the value of the data even if it is physically stolen.
Organisations across several sectors, including finance, healthcare, defence, and government, are currently being advised by Certes on post-quantum data strategies. These measures are intended to protect against both current and future threats as quantum capabilities become more widely available. Certes' expertise is being leveraged to help these institutions safeguard essential assets and remain compliant with evolving security regulations.
The company highlights that its technology is in use by over 1,000 clients in nearly 100 countries. Certification standards such as FIPS 140-2 and Common Criteria EAL4+ are in place for its security products, according to company background materials.
Certes concludes that though data breaches are becoming more common, organisations now have the means to ensure that any information stolen is effectively rendered valueless, reducing the overall impact and risk associated with inevitable breaches.
