SSCP Systems Security Certified PractitionerCryptographyMedium
A cryptocurrency project aims to use a hashing algorithm that is resistant to quantum computer attacks, specifically for its proof-of-work mechanism. Which type of hashing algorithm is being sought?
- AMD5
- BPost-quantum hashing
- CScrypt
- DSHA-256
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. Post-quantum hashing
Post-quantum cryptography encompasses algorithms designed to be resistant to attacks by quantum computers. Traditional hashing algorithms like SHA-256 and MD5, while currently secure against classical computers (for SHA-256), may be vulnerable to quantum algorithms in the future. Scrypt is a memory-hard KDF, not specifically a quantum-resistant hash.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. MD5 is cryptographically broken and should not be used for security-critical applications, let alone quantum resistance.
- C. Scrypt is a password-based key derivation function (PBKDF) designed to be resistant to brute-force attacks, not a general-purpose quantum-resistant hashing algorithm.
- D. SHA-256 is a standard cryptographic hash but not specifically designed to be quantum-resistant.
Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC)
Cryptographic algorithms that are considered secure against cryptanalytic attacks by quantum computers, which pose a threat to current public-key cryptography standards.
- Designed to resist quantum computer attacks.
- Includes algorithms for hashing, signatures, and key exchange.
- An active area of research and standardization.
Memory trick: Quantum Leap Requires New Crypto.