Sherlocked Security – Quantum Threat Modeling & Crypto Agility

Preparing for Quantum Computing Risks by Implementing Crypto Agility for Future-Proof Security

1. Statement of Work (SOW)

Service Name: Quantum Threat Modeling & Crypto Agility
Client Type: Enterprises preparing for quantum computing impacts, financial institutions, government agencies, cloud providers, and organizations reliant on encryption.
Service Model: Project-Based Assessment & Retainer Advisory
Compliance Alignment: NIST SP 800-53, NIST SP 800-171, ISO/IEC 27001, GDPR, FIPS, and other regulatory frameworks.

Quantum Threat Modeling & Crypto Agility Includes:

Assessment of current cryptographic systems and protocols in the context of quantum computing threats
Analysis of quantum computing advancements and potential impact on encryption standards (e.g., RSA, ECC)
Quantum-safe cryptographic algorithms review and evaluation
Crypto agility implementation roadmap development for seamless algorithm transitions
Threat modeling of quantum computer capabilities and their potential to break existing cryptographic systems
Cryptographic key management strategy development for quantum-resistant algorithms
Review of current public key infrastructure (PKI) with a focus on quantum readiness
Testing and validation of quantum-resistant encryption algorithms
Advisory on implementing hybrid encryption strategies combining classical and quantum-safe algorithms
Continuous monitoring of quantum computing advancements and adapting cryptographic systems as needed

2. Our Approach

[Quantum Threat Landscape Assessment] → [Current Cryptographic Systems Evaluation] → [Quantum-Safe Algorithm Selection] → [Crypto Agility Strategy Development] → [Implementation of Hybrid Encryption Solutions] → [Testing & Validation] → [Continuous Quantum Threat Monitoring] → [Reporting & Recommendations]

3. Methodology

Quantum Threat Landscape Assessment:
- Review the latest advancements in quantum computing and its implications on current cryptographic methods.
- Study the potential for quantum computers to break widely-used encryption algorithms (e.g., RSA, ECC).
- Identify the types of sensitive data and systems at risk of exposure due to quantum computing.
Current Cryptographic Systems Evaluation:
- Evaluate the effectiveness of existing cryptographic systems (e.g., RSA, ECC, AES) in the face of quantum computing threats.
- Assess the vulnerability of key management systems, digital signatures, and encryption keys to quantum attacks.
- Review the current public key infrastructure (PKI) for quantum-readiness.
Quantum-Safe Algorithm Selection:
- Review quantum-safe cryptographic algorithms such as lattice-based, hash-based, multivariate polynomial, and code-based algorithms.
- Analyze and recommend the best quantum-safe algorithms based on the organization’s current encryption and performance needs.
- Evaluate the maturity, efficiency, and security of post-quantum cryptography (PQC) algorithms for integration into existing systems.
Crypto Agility Strategy Development:
- Design a crypto agility framework to allow seamless integration of quantum-safe algorithms alongside current cryptographic standards.
- Develop a roadmap for transitioning to quantum-resistant cryptography when necessary.
- Ensure that systems can dynamically switch between classical and quantum-safe algorithms without disruption.
Hybrid Encryption Solutions:
- Implement hybrid encryption strategies that combine classical encryption methods with quantum-safe algorithms for enhanced security.
- Evaluate hybrid solutions such as quantum-safe digital signatures, encryption, and key exchange protocols.
- Ensure that quantum-safe algorithms are used for the most critical applications while maintaining performance.
Cryptographic Key Management Strategy:
- Develop a strategy for managing quantum-resistant keys, including key rotation, revocation, and long-term storage strategies.
- Design key management systems that can handle both classical and quantum-safe keys.
- Recommend new PKI models that accommodate the integration of quantum-safe algorithms.
Testing & Validation:
- Conduct testing and validation of quantum-resistant algorithms to ensure compatibility with existing systems.
- Simulate quantum attacks to assess the effectiveness of post-quantum cryptographic solutions.
- Perform a pilot implementation of quantum-safe algorithms in controlled environments.
Continuous Quantum Threat Monitoring:
- Set up continuous monitoring to track quantum computing advancements and identify any changes in quantum capabilities that may affect cryptographic systems.
- Regularly assess the state of quantum-safe algorithms and keep systems up to date with the latest advancements in PQC.
Reporting & Recommendations:
- Provide a comprehensive report on the organization’s preparedness for quantum threats and the steps needed to ensure crypto agility.
- Deliver actionable recommendations for integrating quantum-safe algorithms into the existing infrastructure.
- Outline best practices for ensuring long-term cryptographic security against quantum threats.

4. Deliverables to the Client

Quantum Threat Assessment Report: An in-depth analysis of the potential quantum risks facing the client’s cryptographic infrastructure.
Crypto Agility Strategy Document: A roadmap detailing the steps to implement crypto agility, including algorithm selection and hybrid encryption approaches.
Quantum-Safe Algorithm Review: A report evaluating various quantum-safe algorithms and recommending the most suitable options for the client.
Cryptographic Key Management Plan: A strategy for managing quantum-resistant keys and integrating them into the current key management systems.
Hybrid Encryption Implementation Report: Recommendations on implementing hybrid encryption solutions and testing their effectiveness in real-world scenarios.
Testing & Validation Results: Documentation of the testing and validation of quantum-safe algorithms and their compatibility with existing systems.
Continuous Monitoring & Adaptation Plan: A plan for ongoing monitoring and adaptation of cryptographic systems in light of advancements in quantum computing.

5. What We Need from You (Client Requirements)

Cryptographic Systems Overview: Information about the organization’s current cryptographic systems and protocols (e.g., RSA, ECC, AES).
Key Management Infrastructure Details: Details about the organization’s key management systems (e.g., PKI, key rotation practices).
Regulatory & Compliance Information: Documentation of relevant regulatory requirements regarding cryptographic practices (e.g., GDPR, HIPAA).
Threat Landscape Assessment: Insights into the types of data and systems the organization deems most critical to secure against quantum threats.
Technology Stack Overview: Information on the organization’s IT infrastructure and the types of systems relying on cryptography.

6. Tools & Technology Stack

Quantum Threat Analysis Tools:
- Qiskit, IBM Quantum Experience for quantum threat simulations and quantum computing resources.
- Post-Quantum Cryptography Tools: Open Quantum Safe, PQCrypto for testing and implementing quantum-resistant cryptographic algorithms.
Crypto Agility Frameworks:
- CryptoLib, OpenSSL for supporting hybrid encryption and crypto agility frameworks.
- NIST PQC Algorithms: Lattice-based, code-based, and multivariate-based algorithms for quantum-safe encryption.
Key Management Systems:
- Vault, AWS KMS for managing encryption keys with hybrid quantum-safe support.
- Thales CipherTrust for multi-layered encryption key management.
Cryptographic Testing Tools:
- OpenSSL for testing quantum-safe algorithms and evaluating their performance.
- Post-Quantum Cryptography Libraries for implementing and testing post-quantum algorithms in real-world use cases.

7. Engagement Lifecycle

Kickoff & Scoping: Understand the client’s existing cryptographic systems and quantum threat preparedness.
Quantum Threat Modeling: Identify potential quantum threats and assess the vulnerabilities in existing encryption systems.
Quantum-Safe Algorithm Review: Select and evaluate quantum-safe algorithms for integration into the existing cryptographic infrastructure.
Crypto Agility Strategy Development: Develop a roadmap for crypto agility, ensuring a smooth transition to quantum-safe algorithms.
Hybrid Encryption Solution Implementation: Implement hybrid encryption strategies, ensuring compatibility with both classical and quantum-safe algorithms.
Key Management Strategy: Develop a comprehensive strategy for managing quantum-resistant keys.
Testing & Validation: Test and validate the integration of quantum-safe algorithms in controlled environments.
Continuous Monitoring: Set up a system for continuous monitoring of quantum computing advancements and system readiness.
Reporting & Recommendations: Provide actionable insights and strategic recommendations for improving crypto agility.

8. Why Sherlocked Security?

Feature	Sherlocked Advantage
Comprehensive Quantum Threat Modeling	In-depth analysis of quantum threats and their impact on cryptographic systems
Crypto Agility Strategy	Tailored strategies for transitioning to quantum-safe algorithms without disrupting existing systems
Quantum-Safe Algorithm Evaluation	Expert recommendations on the most effective quantum-resistant algorithms for your environment
Hybrid Encryption Solutions	Implementation of hybrid solutions combining quantum-safe and classical algorithms for superior protection
Key Management & Crypto Agility	Seamless integration of quantum-safe keys into existing key management systems for future-proof security
Continuous Monitoring & Adaptation	Ongoing monitoring of quantum advancements to keep your cryptographic systems ahead of emerging threats

9. Real-World Case Studies

Financial Institution’s Quantum Threat Preparation

Client: A global financial institution.
Challenge: Prepare for quantum computing advancements potentially breaking existing cryptographic systems protecting sensitive financial data.
Solution: Implemented a crypto agility framework, transitioning to quantum-safe encryption methods and hybrid encryption for critical financial applications.
Outcome: The institution is now equipped with a flexible encryption strategy, capable of evolving as quantum computing capabilities grow.

Government Agency Quantum-Ready Infrastructure

Client: A government agency dealing with classified information.
Challenge: Secure classified data against quantum threats while maintaining compliance with federal encryption standards.
Solution: Developed and deployed a quantum-safe key management strategy, and transitioned critical systems to post-quantum algorithms.
Outcome: The agency is now better prepared for the future of quantum computing while ensuring regulatory compliance and national security.

10. SOP – Standard Operating Procedure

Initial Engagement: Understand the cryptographic systems in use and the quantum threat landscape.
Quantum Threat Modeling: Assess quantum risks to the organization’s cryptographic infrastructure and identify key vulnerabilities.
Quantum-Safe Algorithm Review: Evaluate post-quantum cryptographic algorithms for suitability in the organization’s environment.
Crypto Agility Strategy Development: Develop a clear strategy for integrating quantum-safe algorithms into the existing infrastructure.
Hybrid Encryption Solution Implementation: Implement hybrid encryption solutions to ensure smooth operation during the transition to quantum-safe algorithms.
Key Management Strategy: Ensure proper management and protection of quantum-resistant keys.
Testing & Validation: Conduct extensive testing of new quantum-safe algorithms in real-world scenarios.
Continuous Monitoring: Continuously monitor quantum computing advancements and adapt the cryptographic strategy as needed.
Reporting & Recommendations: Provide the client with a detailed report on their quantum preparedness and next steps.

11. Quantum Threat Modeling & Crypto Agility Readiness Checklist

1. Pre-Engagement Preparation

[ ] Overview of current cryptographic systems and algorithms (RSA, ECC, AES, etc.)
[ ] Key management infrastructure details (e.g., PKI, key rotation practices)
[ ] Regulatory compliance requirements regarding cryptographic methods (e.g., GDPR, HIPAA)
[ ] Critical data and systems identification for quantum threat modeling

2. During Engagement

[ ] Conduct a thorough analysis of quantum computing advancements and their impact on current encryption protocols
[ ] Review quantum-safe algorithms and their applicability to the client’s systems
[ ] Develop a crypto agility strategy and roadmap for integrating quantum-safe algorithms
[ ] Implement hybrid encryption solutions to enhance system security during the transition

3. Post-Review Actions

[ ] Finalize the quantum-safe algorithm selection and integrate into critical systems
[ ] Ensure proper management of quantum-resistant keys and update PKI models
[ ] Test and validate new cryptographic implementations to ensure seamless operation

4. Continuous Improvement

[ ] Continuously monitor advancements in quantum computing to adapt security protocols
[ ] Regularly update encryption systems and algorithms as quantum computing capabilities evolve
[ ] Perform regular risk assessments to identify new quantum threats and mitigate them proactively

Quantum Threat Modeling & Crypto Agility