A Risk-Aware Digital Forensic Intelligence Framework for Post-Quantum Authentication Codes: A Systematic Literature Review

Abstract

The rapid progress of quantum computing poses a significant risk to the security principles of current cryptographic systems, highlighting the urgent need to adopt post-quantum cryptography (PQC). At the same time, digital forensic investigations are grappling with growing difficulties in preserving the integrity, authenticity, and chain-of-custody compliance of evidence amid increasingly complex threat landscapes. This systematic literature review explores the intersection of risk-aware digital forensic intelligence frameworks and post-quantum authentication codes, focusing on the theoretical underpinnings, practical applications, and emerging challenges. A comprehensive analysis of over 120 peer-reviewed publications in post-quantum cryptography, digital forensics, risk management, and authentication systems identifies critical research gaps and proposes an integrated framework that connects forensic investigation methodologies with quantum-resistant authentication mechanisms. The findings indicate that hybrid cryptographic approaches, which combine classical and post-quantum primitives, offer superior performance in transitional environments. Additionally, AI-enhanced forensic frameworks substantially improve threat detection accuracy and evidence preservation. This study formulates research questions focused on framework integration, risk assessment methodologies, and regulatory compliance, thereby offering structured guidance for researchers, practitioners, and policymakers during the quantum-safe transition era.