Mastercard Delivers Quantum-resistant Contectless Cards

Mastercard has approved the first cards for issuers that are compatible with the new EMVCo contactless specifications designed to protect against attacks from both traditional and quantum computers.

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Quantum computing, which uses principles of quantum physics to solve complex problems exponentially faster than today's supercomputers, holds great promise but also risk – bad actors could harness quantum computing to break the encryption that protects key systems. Though that possibility is likely years away, Mastercard experts have long been exploring the potential impact of quantum computing, and in January 2021 the company introduced quantum-resistant Enhanced Contactless specifications.

Since then, the company has worked with EMVCo to help evolve the innovation into an industry standard for contactless acceptance that provides the best protection for the industry, businesses and consumers while offering the same speed and convenience of today's contactless payment experience.

"Technology has the potential to open new opportunities for both consumers and fraudsters. That's why future-proofing security is critical," said Ajay Bhalla, president, Cyber & Intelligence at Mastercard. "By bringing quantum-era technology to contactless payments, we are taking steps to future-proof security and privacy protection as much as possible. These new cards will deliver that greater peace of mind, while also providing consumers and merchants a seamless transition from today's contactless experience."