Peter Todd, a Bitcoin developer, has raised the alarm once again: the National Security Agency (NSA), he claims, has resumed its attempts to undermine the foundations of modern cryptography. This time, the NSA is operating under the guise of promoting so-called “quantum-safe algorithms.” While the advisability of a combined approach, integrating traditional and quantum-resistant methods, is universally acknowledged, the NSA is reportedly striving to implement exclusively quantum cryptography.
The Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF) plays a key role in defining cryptographic standards. Concerns are being expressed that the NSA could use its influence to push through weakened standards. The proposed changes to the task force’s operating rules, known as MODPOD, are causing particular alarm because, by ignoring criticism and objections, they could enhance censorship. This, in turn, could potentially hinder the blocking of insecure cryptographic standards.
Critics assert that the proposed changes could lead to IETF moderators, relying on vague formulations such as “incorrect comments” and subjective assessments, suppressing dissent. As a result, cryptographic standards could be weakened without proper public discussion and oversight.
It is important to note that the NSA has historically held a position aimed against the widespread use of robust encryption in the civilian sector. This trend has been traceable since the 1970s and has persisted for decades. As an example, one can cite the Clipper chip proposed in the 1990s, which potentially allowed for the breaking of ciphers. However, this project faced broad public criticism and was ultimately canceled. According to a number of analysts, today’s NSA initiative to promote “non-hybrid” quantum cryptography is an attempt to replay this scenario.