Telefónica and Halotech Digital Services have unveiled a cutting-edge IoT solution that incorporates post-quantum encryption, designed to enhance secure communication in safety-critical environments such as mining, healthcare, and the industrial sector. The new solution, known as TU Quantum Encryption, builds on the successful proof of concept (PoC) of IoT Quantum Ready technology for Halotech’s AI helmets, particularly the Halo I and Halo III smart devices.
This solution, centred on Quantum Ready Secure Communication, offers a higher level of security for connected devices like the Halo I helmets and Halo III smart bracelets. These devices are equipped with GPS, an emergency SOS button, a fall detector, and advanced sensors to monitor key environmental factors such as noise, temperature, humidity, air pressure, air quality, and thermal stress. These features contribute to improved safety and working conditions for personnel in challenging environments. Telefónica ensures reliable connectivity through its NB-IoT and LTE-M networks, which are known for their low power consumption and extensive coverage, even in remote or difficult-to-reach areas.
The solution is managed via Telefónica Tech’s Kite platform, an IoT managed connectivity platform that allows users to monitor and control their devices in real time, from any location. The integration of post-quantum cryptography adds an additional layer of security, protecting critical data from potential future threats posed by quantum computing advancements.
This collaboration underlines Telefónica’s dedication to security and technological innovation, while positioning Halotech AI as a force in integrating advanced security technologies for critical operational environments. The partnership aims not only to protect sensitive data but also to enhance operational efficiency in what are referred to as ‘tactical operations bubbles’, where the safety of workers and personnel is paramount.
“We have worked with Telefónica Tech to integrate, under a hybrid model, the most advanced post-quantum security in Telefónica’s IoT Data Ready Service systems. In this way, all critical information is encrypted using classical and post-quantum algorithms,” said Antonio Guzmán, Director of Discovery at Telefónica Innovación Digital. “With this integration, we effectively mitigate the current threats to the secrecy of information, derived from the impact that quantum computing will have on current cryptography. This solution, which anticipates and solves real problems, has been brought into production together with our partner HaloTechs.”
“This collaboration with Telefónica marks a before and after for Halotech AI, allowing us to offer our customers, both in industry and law enforcement, a technology that not only optimises security in critical environments, but also ensures the protection of information with the highest security standards. Both the Halo I helmet and the Halo III armband, connected to our platform, allow us to govern security in tactical operations efficiently and with total confidence,” added Manu Marín, CEO of Halotech Digital Services.
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