Next-Generation Cybersecurity Protocols for Secure Key Distribution in Global Payment Gateways

This research investigates the impact of quantum computing on cybersecurity, particularly focusing on secure key distribution in global payment gateways. With the advancement of quantum algorithms such as Shor’s and Grover’s, traditional cryptographic protocols like RSA and ECC are at risk of being broken, posing a serious threat to financial security. This study presents next-generation post-quantum cryptographic protocols, ensuring resilient cybersecurity measures for financial infrastructures against emerging quantum-enabled cyber threats.

The research introduces hybrid cryptographic frameworks, integrating Kyber-based key exchange, Dilithium authentication, and quantum-resistant encryption models to enhance security in digital payment transactions. A prototype implementation was developed and tested within a controlled environment, simulating real-world financial transactions using quantum-safe cryptographic methods. Performance benchmarking reveals that while post-quantum encryption introduces a 10-15% computational overhead, it remains operationally viable for real-time financial systems when optimized with cryptographic acceleration. Security validation confirms resilience against MITM, replay, and quantum decryption attacks, proving the effectiveness of quantum-resistant key exchange mechanisms.

Furthermore, this research examines compliance gaps in financial security standards, including PCI DSS, ISO 27001, and NIST PQC, emphasizing the need for regulatory updates to accommodate post-quantum security frameworks. The findings propose a structured roadmap for banks, payment processors, and regulatory bodies to adopt quantum-safe cryptographic mechanisms, ensuring long-term security and interoperability in financial transactions.

By addressing key challenges such as computational efficiency, regulatory compliance, and real-world deployment, this study provides a critical foundation for securing financial systems in the quantum era. The proposed cryptographic models enable a smooth transition to quantum-resistant security, ensuring secure key distribution, authentication, and data integrity for the future of global financial cybersecurity.