The Looming Threat: Quantum Computers and Cybersecurity
Quantum computers pose a grave risk to the future because they threaten to undermine the very foundations of modern cybersecurity. As quantum computing advances, the cryptographic systems that safeguard our digital world are at risk of being rendered obsolete. Most importantly, the urgency of this threat is driving industry and government leaders to take decisive action before quantum capabilities become mainstream.[1]
How Quantum Computing Breaks Encryption
Today, encryption underpins everything from online banking and confidential communications to national security. Classical computers, no matter how powerful, require an impractical amount of time to crack modern encryption algorithms. However, quantum computers leverage quantum mechanics to process information in fundamentally new ways. Therefore, tasks considered impossible for classical machines become trivial for quantum systems.[1]
Because quantum computers can exploit algorithms like Shor’s, they can break widely used cryptographic methods such as RSA and ECC at unprecedented speeds. This capacity to defeat public key cryptography means cybercriminals could decrypt sensitive data, hijack secure communications, and even take control of critical infrastructure.
How Soon Is the Quantum Threat?
There is debate about when quantum computers will actually threaten current cryptographic standards. Some experts estimate large-scale quantum computers capable of breaking RSA-2048 will not materialize until 2055 or later. Others caution that breakthroughs could arrive as soon as 2035, especially if error correction and quantum hardware accelerate unexpectedly.[2]
Nevertheless, many organizations are not waiting for this breakthrough. A 2024 KPMG survey found that most corporations in North America expect quantum computers to become mainstream by 2030. Because cyber adversaries may already be collecting encrypted data to decrypt later, the need for post-quantum security measures is immediate.[1]
Bigger Risks Than Personal Privacy
The risks posed by quantum computers go beyond individual privacy. If attackers exploit quantum advantages to infiltrate Operational Technology (OT) or Internet of Things (IoT) devices, they can compromise entire infrastructure networks—such as electricity grids and water systems. At scale, this could disrupt critical services or even threaten national security.[5]
How Organizations Can Prepare for Quantum Threats
- Adopt Post-Quantum Cryptography: Transitioning to quantum-resistant algorithms is essential. New cryptographic standards are being developed to withstand quantum attacks.
- Inventory Sensitive Data: Identify and secure confidential information that could be at risk if current encryption fails in the future.
- Monitor Quantum Advances: Stay updated on quantum hardware developments, and be ready to respond quickly to breakthroughs.
- Secure the Supply Chain: Governments and businesses must ensure their hardware, software, and partners are also preparing for the quantum era.
Besides that, collaboration between industry, academia, and government is crucial to addressing the quantum cybersecurity challenge before it reaches a crisis point.[2]
Conclusion: Proactive Steps Are Vital
Quantum computers pose a grave risk to the future because their arrival threatens the security of our digital infrastructure. While large-scale quantum attacks may not be imminent, the time to act is now. Organizations must prepare by adopting post-quantum cryptography, securing their supply chains, and collaborating widely to ensure the resilience of their digital defenses. Ignoring the quantum threat today could jeopardize private data, vital services, and even national security tomorrow.
References
[1] KPMG: Quantum is coming — and bringing new cybersecurity threats with it
[2] The Quantum Insider: Quantum Computing is a Long-Term Cybersecurity Risk, But Deserves Immediate Attention
[5] Compact.nl: Quantum computing risks and opportunities: how to become post-quantum ready
