Researchers are applying machine learning techniques to crack historical hand-written ciphers used in medieval correspondence, including diplomatic and personal communications. While academically fascinating, this work demonstrates that AI can systematically analyse and break pattern-based encryption schemes that were previously considered too obscure to decode at scale. It highlights the broader capability of AI to accelerate cryptanalysis against weak or legacy cipher designs.

Architect’s Take: No immediate action is required, but this research serves as a timely reminder to audit any legacy or proprietary encryption schemes in your environment — AI-assisted cryptanalysis lowers the bar for breaking non-standard ciphers. Ensure all sensitive data at rest and in transit is protected by modern, well-vetted standards such as AES-256 and TLS 1.3, and avoid reliance on security through obscurity.

Original advisory: AI Used to Decrypt Medieval Ciphers