France Prepares a Shift to Quantum-Resistant Encryption

France is taking its first major steps away from traditional encryption methods. The move is driven by growing concerns over the rapid development of quantum computers, which could eventually threaten the security of sensitive data as well as cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin.

The country's cybersecurity agency, the ANSSI (National Agency for the Security of Information Systems), announced that starting in 2027 it will no longer certify security products that do not use quantum-resistant encryption. Businesses have also been advised to purchase only solutions that comply with the new standards by 2030.

Because ANSSI certification is mandatory for government institutions and operators of critical infrastructure, the decision will effectively lead to the gradual retirement of older cryptographic systems across key sectors.

Speaking at the France Quantum conference, ANSSI Chief of Staff Samih Souissi emphasized that the issue extends far beyond technology. According to him, the transition also involves governance, industrial planning, regulatory frameworks, and national sovereignty.

The policy shift is closely linked to growing concerns about the so-called "Q-Day"—the moment when quantum computers become powerful enough to break today's cryptographic protections. Experts are also warning about a "harvest now, decrypt later" scenario, in which encrypted data is collected today with the intention of decrypting it once sufficiently advanced quantum computers become available.

Although quantum computers capable of breaking current encryption standards do not yet exist, estimates suggest that such systems may be closer than previously thought. In March, Google announced plans to transition to quantum-resistant cryptography by 2029. Meanwhile, Project Eleven stated in May that a sufficiently advanced quantum machine could emerge around 2030, potentially putting as many as seven million bitcoins at risk.

The cryptocurrency industry is also preparing for the challenge. The Ethereum Foundation has established a dedicated team focused on post-quantum security. Coinbase has urged blockchain developers to begin migrating to quantum-resistant encryption standards and to determine how unclaimed or unmigrated funds should be handled. The Stellar Development Foundation has likewise introduced a three-phase roadmap for transitioning the XLM network to quantum-safe cryptography.

Not everyone, however, expects an immediate crisis. Shiv Shankar, CEO of Boundless, acknowledged that the risk is increasing but noted that this development is largely in line with previous forecasts. He stressed that there is no reason for panic, as many of the world's leading experts are already working on solutions to address the challenge.