#AppleCryptoUpdate Apple has introduced a significant cryptographic security upgrade in iMessage with the launch of PQ3, a post-quantum cryptographic protocol designed to protect user conversations from potential future quantum computer attacks. Here's what you need to know ¹:

- *Post-Quantum Cryptography*: PQ3 is built to safeguard messages from "Harvest Now, Decrypt Later" attacks, where encrypted data is stored for potential future decryption using quantum computers.

- *Level 3 Security*: PQ3 achieves Level 3 security, the highest level of messaging security, by using post-quantum cryptography for both initial key establishment and ongoing message exchange, ensuring rapid self-healing from key compromise.

- *Key Features*:

- *Hybrid Design*: Combines new post-quantum algorithms with current Elliptic Curve algorithms for enhanced security.

- *Rekeying Mechanism*: Periodically updates encryption keys to limit the impact of potential key compromises.

- *Formal Verification*: The protocol has undergone rigorous mathematical analysis and verification by top cryptographers.

- *Availability*: PQ3 will be available in upcoming public releases of iOS 17.4, iPadOS 17.4, macOS 14.4, and watchOS 10.4, and is already included in developer preview and beta releases.

This update demonstrates Apple's commitment to staying ahead of emerging threats and protecting user data with cutting-edge technology.