Telefónica, in collaboration with Halotech Digital Services, has announced the launch of an innovative secure communication solution for critical environments based on post-quantum encryption technology. The solution, named TU Quantum Encryption, is designed for strategic sectors such as mining, healthcare, and industry, offering an unprecedented level of protection in communication and data exchange on IoT devices.
This development stems from a proof of concept (PoC) conducted with Halotech’s smart devices, Halo I and Halo III, which are part of a series of advanced tools to ensure the safety of operators in sectors with extreme working conditions. The solution focuses on deploying Quantum Ready secure communications and enhancing operational security in scenarios where precision and reliability are crucial.
Technology serving security
Halotech’s Halo I and Halo III devices are equipped with advanced sensors that allow monitoring critical environmental parameters such as noise level, temperature, pressure, humidity, and air quality. They also feature functions like GPS, emergency SOS button, and fall detectors, making them essential tools to ensure the safety of workers in hazardous environments.
Telefónica Tech’s Kite platform is the core of this solution, managing real-time connectivity of devices through NB-IoT and LTE-M networks, which provide robust coverage even in remote or hard-to-reach areas. Through Kite, users can remotely monitor and control the status and location of operators anywhere in the world, increasing efficiency and reducing response time to emergencies.
Post-quantum encryption: anticipating the future
One of the highlights of this collaboration is the integration of post-quantum cryptography into the IoT ecosystem. This type of encryption, which combines classical cryptography methods with advanced techniques designed to withstand attacks that could be possible with the advent of quantum computing, ensures that critical information is protected against future threats.
Antonio Guzmán, Director of Discovery at Telefónica Innovation Digital, explained: “We have worked with Telefónica Tech to integrate the most advanced post-quantum security into our IoT systems. With this integration, we effectively mitigate future threats derived from the impact that quantum computing will have on current cryptography”.
The impact of this technology goes beyond ensuring the integrity of exchanged information, optimizing operational efficiency in sectors where worker safety and data confidentiality are fundamental. This is especially relevant in so-called tactical operations bubbles, such as those in security forces and emergency services, where quick response capability and secure access to information are key.
An advance for critical sectors
CEO of Halotech Digital Services, Manu Marín, highlighted the importance of this collaboration: “This solution not only improves security in critical environments but also ensures information protection with the highest security standards. With post-quantum encryption, we can offer our clients technology that reinforces both physical protection and real-time cybersecurityCybersecurity solutions are essential in today’s era…“.
The implementation of TU Quantum Encryption represents a qualitative leap in the way data is managed in critical environments, and signifies a significant step towards secure digitization in sectors where information protection is as important as the physical safety of workers.
Telefónica Innovation Day
On October 17th, Telefónica will celebrate the Telefónica Innovation Day in Madrid, an event that will showcase the company’s latest technological innovations, including a real-time demonstration of the solution developed with Halotech. During the event, attendees will observe how the Halo I and Halo III devices monitor workers’ working conditions, how emergency alerts are managed, and how post-quantum encryption secures sensitive information generated by these systems.
This collaboration reinforces Telefónica and Halotech’s commitment to security, technological innovation, and data protection, positioning both companies as leaders in the field of secure communication in industrial and critical operational environments.
With this solution, Telefónica and Halotech not only anticipate future cybersecurity threats, but also strengthen their investment in technologies that not only protect information but also improve the lives of workers in sectors where security is an absolute priority.