Post-Quantum Digital Signatures in Transport Documents

Abstract

Asymmetric cryptography plays a critical role in the security, authenticity and sustainability of widely used electronic documents on a level comparable to the security and authenticity of a traditional paper documents in transport and logistics. However, security of the majority of the asymmetric cryptographic techniques currently in use, including those used to confirm the validity of electronic documents, will be compromised due to the forthcoming development of quantum computers. The concept of a quantum computer is no longer just a theory. The race for supremacy in quantum technology is on among countries since it is the most drastic technology in the world. On a large enough quantum computer, an attacker can easily generate fake digital signatures by applying Shor’s algorithm. Digital communications and electronic transactions could be devoid of the guarantee of authenticity and non-repudiation if this vulnerability is not addressed. Post-quantum cryptography strives to provide useful techniques that are resistant to attacks utilizing quantum computers in order to address the threat to existing asymmetric cryptography. In this research, we examine the current post-quantum digital signature algorithms used to confirm the validity of an electronic document in addition to comprehending the utilization of digital signing. Overall, we conclude that in order to define the next generation of electronic documents and to address the quantum threat, it is crucial to standardize a quantum-resistant digital signature scheme.