REVIEW: POST-QUANTUM CRYPTOGRAPHY IN INTELLIGENT SYSTEMS

Abstract

The advent of quantum computers is highly threatening to traditional cryptographic systems, especially for intelligent systems like autonomous cars, IoT devices, and smart grids. The popular algorithms such as RSA and ECC that form the pillars of contemporary digital security are vulnerable to quantum attacks, thus the invention of post-quantum cryptography (PQC). PQC features quantum-resistant algorithms that will be secure against both classical and quantum computer attacks. This review paper discusses the developments of PQC between 2023 and 2025, with a focus on its usage in intelligent systems. We underscore the peculiarities of implementing PQC in resource-limited environments, latticebased cryptography advancements, and NIST standardization. We also highlight research gaps, e.g., lightweight solutions for PQC in IoT and real-time systems, and hybrid cryptographic schemes. Our review synthesizes recent literature to present a broad understanding of PQC's capabilities and limitations, providing insights into directions for the future of securing intelligent systems in the quantum world.