Thales Group presented a smart card with built-in protection against quantum computing attacks
French tech giant Thales Group has unveiled the world's first quantum-resistant smart card, the MultiApp 5.2 Premium PQC. This groundbreaking card, designed to withstand attacks from future quantum computers, has been officially certified by France's National Agency for the Security of Information Systems (ANSSI).
Next-Generation Security for Everyday Use
While it looks like a standard plastic card with an embedded microchip, this device is powered by its own operating system. Its high-level security certification makes it ideal for applications where data protection is paramount, including:
- Secure personal identification (e-passports, driver's licenses)
- Payment instruments
- Medical cards
- Access control devices
This development is the result of Thales's long-term investment in post-quantum cryptography (PQC) to secure critical systems. It's the first product of its kind certified under the Common Criteria at the EAL 6+2 security level, setting a new benchmark for data protection.
The MultiApp 5.2 Premium PQC employs an advanced digital signature, built to resist attacks from even the most powerful quantum computers. It utilizes new digital signature algorithms endorsed by the U.S. National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST).
The Broader Trend Towards Quantum Security
Thales's innovation is part of a wider industry shift towards quantum-safe technology. For example, the Signal messenger recently announced the rollout of the Sparse Post Quantum Ratchet (SPQR), a new protocol designed to provide robust end-to-end encryption for entire chat sessions.