cryptography

A new cryptography paper describes a method for forging 1024-bit RSA signatures in time close to the Special Number Field Sieve estimate, a result with implications for the security margin of legacy RSA keys still used in certificates and code signing. Security researchers are discussing the practical cost of the attack and whether affected systems should migrate to longer keys or newer cryptography.

A new essay on the Cryptography Engineering blog asks whether sandboxing techniques are sufficient to contain rogue AI agents that may act beyond their intended scope. The piece examines the limits of isolation-based containment as autonomous software agents become more capable and widely deployed, prompting discussion among security practitioners about whether traditional sandbox models can hold.

NATO is looking to increase investment in quantum technology for its defense systems. The move reflects growing interest among military alliances in quantum computing, sensing and communications, which could affect cryptography, navigation and battlefield capabilities. The report highlights the alliance's push to keep pace with rivals developing quantum capabilities for military use.

A technology chief executive has publicly warned that advances in quantum computing could eventually threaten the encryption underpinning Bitcoin, raising concerns about the security of the cryptocurrency. The warning has fuelled broader debate about how prepared crypto networks are for quantum-era attacks and whether a transition to post-quantum cryptography is needed.

A newly described method for breaking RSA encryption is reportedly faster than any previously known approach, according to an Ars Technica report drawing wide attention online. RSA underpins much of the world's secure communications, so any speedup in attacks against it raises questions about the real-world strength of current encryption. Details of the technique and its practical significance are being hotly debated by security experts.