The Banque de France announces the success of an experiment securing central bank regulatory files transfers with post-quantum cryptography

The Banque de France and Allianz France have successfully completed an experiment aimed at securing regulatory data transfers using post-quantum cryptography (PQC). This initiative was carried out in anticipation of the risks posed by the rise of quantum computing, which threatens traditional cryptographic systems. The success of this test marks a significant step forward in developing these technologies to strengthen the resilience of financial infrastructures.

Published on the 7th of October 2025

The experiment sought to assess the integration of the new standardized PQC algorithms validated by the U.S. National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) in August 2024, within existing communication channels, without modifying critical systems such as applications, browsers, or identity and access management (IAM) systems. The project focused on regulatory file transfers sent by Allianz France through Banque de France’s OneGate platform, used by supervised entities for their weekly reporting obligations.

A hybrid approach to address emerging threats

A hybrid “tunneling” approach was implemented to ensure end-to-end protection of sensitive data against both present and future quantum threats, including “store now, decrypt later” attacks and identity impersonation. The project relied on the latest international standards and European cybersecurity recommendations, in line with ongoing standardization processes.

A turning point in the development of post-quantum cryptography for financial institutions

By demonstrating the feasibility of implementing PQC, the project provides a concrete pathway toward operational transition to post-quantum security within financial infrastructures. This initiative underscores the need to build crypto-agile architectures aligned with international standards, while preparing ambitious migration strategies across the ecosystem.

This achievement is part of Banque de France’s ongoing efforts since 2022, exemplified by the success in 2024 of a first PQC experiment conducted jointly with the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS), and by the publication that same year by OSMP – the Observatory for the Security of Payment Means – of a set of recommendations (available [here]).

Denis Beau, First Deputy Governor of Banque de France, stated: “The success of this experiment marks a new step in our roadmap to mitigate cyber risks and ensure the resilience of our financial system by promoting the adoption of post-quantum cryptography.”

The full report is available here.

What is post-quantum cryptography?

Post-quantum cryptography refers to a set of techniques and cryptographic algorithms designed to resist the capabilities of future quantum computers. These machines, far more powerful than classical computers, could break current asymmetric cryptography, thereby compromising the security of data and communications. Post-quantum cryptography aims to develop protection methods that remain secure even against advanced quantum technologies.

About Banque de France :

As an independent institution, the Banque de France has three main missions: monetary strategy, financial stability and providing services to the economy and society. It helps to define the monetary policy of the euro area and implements this in France; it supervises banks and insurance companies, and ensures risk management; additionally, it offers a wide range of services to firms and individuals.

Visit the website: www.banque-france.fr/en

About Allianz

Allianz, a global player and European leader in insurance, offers a comprehensive range of solutions covering all insurance, assistance, and financial services needs for individuals, professionals, businesses, and communities. With 156,000 employees worldwide, Allianz operates in more than 70 countries, serving nearly 128 million customers. In France, Allianz is a multi-specialist insurer covering personal, social protection, and wealth management needs. Drawing on its expertise and commitment of over 7,500 employees. A network of 10,000 commercial intermediaries, agents, advisors, brokers, and partners, support and guide more than five million customers who place their trust in Allianz France.

Find all the latest news from Allianz France at www.allianz.fr