What is the application prospect of post-quantum cryptography in e-commerce?

Post-quantum cryptography (PQC) has significant application prospects in e-commerce, primarily addressing the future threat quantum computers pose to current encryption standards. As quantum computing advances, it could break widely used cryptographic algorithms like RSA and ECC, compromising secure transactions, data protection, and user trust in e-commerce platforms.

Key Applications of PQC in E-commerce:

1. Secure Payment Transactions: PQC algorithms (e.g., lattice-based, hash-based cryptography) can replace traditional SSL/TLS protocols to safeguard payment data during transmission, ensuring resistance to quantum attacks.
2. Data-at-Rest Encryption: E-commerce databases storing sensitive customer information (e.g., credit card details, personal identifiers) can adopt PQC to prevent decryption by future quantum-enabled adversaries.
3. Digital Signatures: PQC-enhanced signatures (e.g., CRYSTALS-Dilithium) ensure authenticity and integrity of orders, contracts, and communications, mitigating risks from quantum forgery attacks.

Example: An e-commerce platform migrating to PQC could integrate hybrid cryptographic systems, combining classical and post-quantum algorithms during the transition phase. For instance, Tencent Cloud’s KMS (Key Management Service) and SSL/TLS certificate solutions are exploring PQC integration to help businesses future-proof their security infrastructure.

By adopting PQC early, e-commerce companies can stay ahead of quantum threats, maintain compliance with evolving regulations, and uphold customer confidence in secure online transactions.