Quantum computing is opening doors to both new opportunities and significant threats. To tackle these challenges, Telefónica has teamed up with Halotech Digital Services to introduce TU Quantum Encryption, an IoT solution aimed at ensuring secure communications in critical fields like mining, healthcare, and industrial operations.
TU Quantum Encryption enhances the safety of smart devices, including connected helmets and smart bracelets. This partnership prioritizes the security of sensitive data and enhances performance in tactical operations, where the safety of personnel is crucial. Telefónica provides robust connectivity through low-power, wide-coverage networks like NB-IoT and LTE-M, ensuring reliable communication even in remote areas.
These smart devices come equipped with advanced features like GPS, emergency SOS buttons, fall detection, and various sensors that track environmental factors such as noise levels, temperature, humidity, pressure, air quality, and thermal stress. All these features aim to improve the safety and working conditions of operators in challenging environments.
The solution is built on the proof of concept (PoC) IoT Quantum Ready for Halotech AI helmets and has been integrated into the Halo I and Halo III smart devices. It operates on Telefónica Tech’s Kite connectivity platform, allowing for real-time remote monitoring and control. The data transfer is fortified by post-quantum cryptography, which enhances security against the evolving risks posed by quantum computing.
Antonio Guzmán, director of discovery at Telefónica Innovación Digital, remarked, “We’ve collaborated with Telefónica Tech to seamlessly integrate advanced post-quantum security into our IoT Data Ready Service systems. Now, all critical information gets encrypted using both classical and post-quantum algorithms. This integration helps us counter current threats to data secrecy arising from the impact of quantum computing.”
Manu Marín, CEO of Halotech Digital Services, emphasized, “Teaming up with Telefónica is a game-changer for Halotech AI, allowing us to deliver technology that enhances security in critical environments and safeguards information at top security standards. The Halo I helmet and Halo III armband, connected to our platform, empower us to manage security in tactical operations efficiently and with full confidence.”