Introduction

There’s a good chance you’ve come across quantum computing at some point. Most people do not, however, consider its effect on cybersecurity. As quantum technology develops, it is set to cause unprecedented disruption in the domain of digital security. Imagine a future where hackers could access vital information, protected by sophisticated encryption, using only the power of a quantum computer. While it may seem like a plausible concept in sci-fi movies, the power that comes with quantum computing is very real. And it is here.

In this post, we delve into the impact of quantum computing on cybersecurity, the possible risks, and how businesses can pulse prepare for the inevitable. With the proliferation of quantum computing, learning how to protect your organization’s data and infrastructure from quantum-enabled cyberattacks will be paramount.

What is Quantum Computing?

Let’s take a moment to understand what quantum computing is before we explore its implications on cybersecurity. While traditional computers encode their information in binary as either 0 or 1, quantum computers use quantum bits, popularly known as qubits. Thanks to quantum superposition and entanglement, qubits can exist in multiple states at once which makes it possible for quantum computers to vastly outperform classical computers in a variety of calculations.

To put everything simply, quantum computers’ ability to solve problems outpaces the capabilities of today’s computers by multitudes. Problems that could take conventional machines thousands of years can be completed in just seconds. While many advanced fields such as drug discovery, optimization and machine learning would benefit from this, it brings serious challenges for cybersecurity.

The Effect of Quantum Computing in Cybersecurity

The advancement of quantum computing will change the face of encryption and data protection completely. Read below to know more.

• Revolutionary Shift in the Established Cybersecurity Norms

Most currently used encryption algorithms like RSA and ECC (Elliptic Curve Cryptography), that have grown hand in hand with the development of cybersecurity, seem to be the most difficult to break. These algorithms depend on the difficulty of specific mathematical problems to secure data. Take, for instance, the RSA encryption which is said to be secure because it is next to impossible to factor large prime numbers even with classical computers.

• Nonetheless, quantum computers can efficiently use Shor’s Algorithm to solve the previously insurmountable problems of classical computers. Once thought to be unbreakable, a simple click of a button on a quantum machine can solve them in seconds. If quantum computers obtain the requisite scale, the amount of sensitive information that can be decrypted becomes limitless, extending from financial details to government secrets.

• Cryptography Weaknesses

The emergence of quantum computing technology poses chances for other cryptographic systems to fail. Symmetric key algorithms, like AES, remain susceptible to quantum attacks, though to a lesser extent. Using Grover’s Algorithm, quantum computers are capable of increasing the ease with which symmetric encryption is broken. The method of encryption is rendered useless.

This means companies, governments, and even financial institutions will have to change their strategies of protecting highly sensitive information. The current state of cybersecurity will take a massive hit if quantum computing technology becomes prevalent without new hypothesized security protocols in place.

Preventive Measures Against Quantum Attacks

Since the arrival of quantum computing makes traditional encryption algorithms useless, there is a new kind of encryption that is quantum-safe and is called post-quantum cryptography (PQC). PQC strives to formulate cryptographic techniques and algorithms that are impossible to be countered with a quantum computer. Like many modern-day problems, its solution – contrary to popular belief – lies within unconventional thinking.

Change takes time, so even though researchers are working tirelessly on developing these algorithms, the standardization and implementation of the proposed solution within various sectors will take longer than one may expect. Mitigating the dangers caused by post quantum world will require a transition to quantum-safe algorithms and strenous effort towards preventing sensitive data from falling in the wrong hands.

Greater Chances of Cyber Attacks

With the coming of quantum computing, it is more likely that a cybercriminal will want to use it for its malicious activities. Cyber crime powered by quantum technology may include shredding of data, altering/misrepresentation of information, or bypassing the security barrier at astounding rates and levels of efficiency never known before.

The quest for building a quantum computer, we may also see a shift towards arms race of hackers and the defenders. This is a gray area because with advanced quantum computing, comes advanced ways for its abuse which creates an ever changing environment for cyber security.

How Businesses Can Prepare for the Future of Quantum Computing

While the capacity of a quantum computer to disrupt classical cybersecurity systems is astonishing, it does call for preparation as opposed to trepidation. Below are some proactive measures businesses can implement in order to make sure they are protected from threats posed by quantum technologies.

•  Transitioning to quantum resistant cryptography

• Business organizations know how a quantum computer will impact cyber security systems. In order to offset the after effects they need to transition to quantum safe cryptography systems. Leading systems around the globe are already conducting research and testing implementation of post quantum cryptography algorithms. Their standardization may not be completed yet, but organizations should follow the pace of developments in PQC for future planning of transition scenarios.

• Quantum-safe encryption presents a challenge for businesses today, but implementing it allows organizations to future-proof their security against threats posed by tomorrow’s quantum computers.

• Invest in Cybersecurity R&D

Collaboration with the already active quantum-resistant solution development institutions and consultants is a proactive step for businesses as they diversify their portfolios in researching and developing those quantum-proof security technologies.

• On the other hand, constantly monitoring the recent changes in quantum computing technology will enable businesses to leverage the shifts which will inevidably occur in the cybersecurity framework.

• Monitor and Upgrade Security Infrastructure

As quantum computing comes alive, you need to enhance your best current cybersecurity infrastructure. Addressing issues such as weak points, upgraded firewalls, and improved threat levels detection can help mitigate the effect from quantum computer cyber attacks.

• A better approach is to invest in AI and ML based threatening supression systems that will allow businesses to better prepare for quantum strikes before getting hit.

• Get Ready for Cyberattacks from Quantum Computers

Even though it will be a few years before quantum computing is fully achieved, it is vital to start formulating ways to deal with cyberattacks that may happen as a result. Businesses should start developing a comprehensive disaster recovery and incident response strategy that identifies data breaches or loss in the form of quantum attacks and mitigates them rapidly.

• Employers should also ensure employees are armed with skills to counteract potential cyber threats that could occur in a post-quantum world.

• Work Together with Your Peers and Government

Everyone, including local enterprises and multinational companies, will be affected by quantum computing. There will have to be greater coordination both within business sectors and with government bodies to formulate adequate measures to counter quantum computing’s impact on cyber security.

• Threats of a quantum attack can be tackled by businesses joining forces and pooling their expertise and resources so that there is a collective approach to addressing the emerging cyber threats.

Final thoughts

Exciting yet threatening, quantum computing is rapidly emerging. With potential for the science and technology world, it brings major disruption to cybersecurity. Businesses can no longer afford to wait as the need to pivot toward quantum-safe encryption and renew their security frameworks become more pertinent with each passing day. The prospect of quantum cyberattacks calls for the immediate attention of any serious corporation intent on defending their assets. Even if the risks may seem permanently on the horizon, outlining a step by step strategy on a business level would provide impetus on focusing towards keeping data, reputation and infrastructure safe. Any business that is willing to look ahead will ensure that they are safeguarded, even against an unexpected leap in quantum computing and cybersecurity.