Design a post-quantum
messaging application -
win USD 5000!

In a world where realistic quantum computers are on the horizon, innovative post-quantum messaging applications will be vital to keep private communications secure.

SI Consult are a Dubai based cyber security company interested in staying on the cutting edge of technology. We want to understand the impact of quantum computers on our business, find new talent. Entrants will retain ownership of all entered intellectual property, but we might be interested in working with you on your idea.

The aim of this competition is to design a new post-quantum messaging app that will protect communications now and in the future. We're looking for innovative ideas and approaches to this problem from people across the globe.

USD 5000 will be given to the winner of the final round, and the runner-up will receive USD 2500. There are multiple prizes to be won in every round, ranging from USD 25 to USD 500, and all entrants will have the opportunity to be considered for an employment offer or business partnership.

In the first round, we want initial designs and decisions for the application - including choice of quantum secure algorithms, the cryptographic design, platforms you intend to use. This should be high level; we don't want code at this stage, just a view of how you would solve the problem. Diagrams are encouraged!

Submissions will be judged on performance, security and business potential.

Questions are welcome and invited; please email help@pqinnovate.com.

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Each round offers cash prizes and has its own deadline:

• 1) 50 prizes of USD 25 each.
  Deadline: 23:59 GMT on 30 April 2018.
• 2) 5 prizes of USD 500 each.
  Deadline: 23:59 GMT on 30 July 2018.
• 3) 1 grand prize of USD 5000 for the winning design and USD 2500 for the runner-up.
  Deadline: 30 November 2018.

Through this competition, we hope to develop new, collaborative and pioneering business opportunities and partnerships in this area. As such, there are opportunities for employment offers and business partnerships at every round.

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Last year, we launched a competition to design a VoIP application that uses a post-quantum cryptographic algorithm for security (1). Now, we want to build on this momentum and are asking for a wide range of designs for a new post-quantum messaging application.

A scalable quantum computer has not yet been invented, but research effort is increasing and it is widely estimated that a workable quantum computer is possible in 10-15 years (2). When quantum computers become a reality, existing key exchange algorithms such as RSA, Diffie-Hellman and Elliptic Curve Diffie-Hellman will no longer be secure (3). Though many current communications depend on these cryptographic algorithms, forward-thinkers and those with long-term security needs are looking to use post-quantum algorithms to guard against this future threat. These algorithms are believed to offer security, even if a viable quantum computer is invented.

The choice of algorithm is left to the designer; well-known algorithms are listed here for possible selection, and the Post-Quantum Cryptography Conference (4) is recommended as a source for further material. We do, however, advise that entrants take public key sizes into consideration when choosing an algorithm, in order to balance performance and security requirements.

All entries must use a post-quantum key establishment algorithm for this competition, whereas use of a post-quantum signature scheme is optional.

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Submissions will be judged on four areas:

• 1) Security - cryptographic and cyber security;
• 2) Flexibility - platform choices, portability and ease of implementation into other products;
• 3) Performance - speed and reliability;
• 4) Business potential - user experience, innovation and potential for use as a product.

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Who can take part?

The competition is open to individuals, collaborative groups of any size, and businesses. Individuals may opt-in to be considered for an employment offer; businesses may opt-in to be considered for a business partnership.

When is the deadline?

The competition spans three rounds. The first round closes at 23:59 GMT, 30 April 2018.

Can I use an algorithm not listed?

Yes - the choice of post-quantum algorithm is left to the designer - but, as these are currently the most mainstream approaches, they are well-researched and respected.

Can I use open-source software?

Yes, but you must check the license for permission.

Should the cryptographic algorithms be in a separate library?

So that the algorithms can be incorporated into a variety of applications, it is preferable to separate the post-quantum cryptographic routines into a separate library.

What platform should my messaging app run on?

Any, but apps that run on more popular platforms will score more highly against the flexibility criteria.

Do I need to submit source code?

Not for round 1. In round 2, you will be asked for source code showing the post-quantum key exchange.

Does the app need to interoperate with existing messaging apps?

No, this would not be post-quantum secure.

Should I include a post-quantum key establishment, a post-quantum signature algorithm, or both?

Due to the threat of quantum computing, an app with a post-quantum key establishment is needed sooner than a post-quantum signature scheme, if we wish for data to remain private for years in the future. We therefore prioritise implementation of post-quantum key establishment, and it is a compulsory requirement for every entry. However, extra credit may be given for designs that incorporate both a post-quantum key establishment algorithm and a post-quantum signature scheme.

How do I sign up?

Click here to register.