Improving OTP Authentication with PQC Algorithms

Over the past few years, two-factor authentication (2FA) has emerged as a reliable defense against various cyber-attacks, such as Man in the Middle (MITM) and cookie theft. By combining passphrase and one-time password (OTP) authentication, it has successfully preserved the privacy of users across multiple applications. However, recent advancements in quantum computing have posed a threat to the security of credentials. Quantum computers now possess the capability to penetrate standard encryption algorithms. To address this concern, this research aims to implement new post-quantum algorithms for encryption and secure transference of authentication credentials. Specifically, this research will explore NTRU, CRYSTALS-Dilithium, SPHINCS+, and FALCON while evaluating their performance benchmarks against each other within an OTP authentication system. The goal is to determine which algorithm best suits the scenario with enhanced resistance against quantum-related threats.