Securing The Nation Against Advanced Cryptographic Attacks

Advances in quantum computing threaten current encryption standards, risking exposure of sensitive government and critical infrastructure data. The order aims to safeguard national security and digital systems by accelerating the shift to quantum-resistant encryption.

What the order does ​

• Sets a national policy to transition federal systems to NIST-approved post-quantum cryptography (PQC).
• Assigns agencies to identify a PQC migration lead within 30 days.
• Requires agencies to migrate high value assets and high impact systems to PQC for key establishment by 2030 and for digital signatures by 2031.
• Mandates federal pilot projects and PQC migration plans.
• Directs technical support and guidance to agencies and critical infrastructure owners.
• Orders collaboration with allies to encourage global adoption of U.S.-standard PQC.
• Requires new rules for federal contractors to adopt PQC and disclose cryptographic vulnerabilities.
• Instructs revision of validation and procurement processes to speed PQC adoption and cut costs.

Who it affects ​

• All federal agencies.
• Federal contractors and suppliers.
• Operators and owners of critical infrastructure.
• Foreign partners and industry groups.

Context ​

PQC algorithms are designed to withstand both quantum and traditional hacking attempts, protecting information against emerging technological threats.