The advent of quantum computing raises concerns about the security of current passwords and encrypted data, pushing cybersecurity experts to develop new protection methods for the post-quantum era.
Quantum Computing Power
The computing power of quantum computers compared to classical computers is impressive, offering exponentially superior capabilities in certain areas. Here are some numerical comparisons to illustrate this difference:
- A classical computer with N bits can perform a maximum of N calculations simultaneously, while a quantum computer can perform up to 2^N calculations 1.
- For 10 bits/qubits, this translates to 10 calculations for a classical computer versus 1,024 (2^10) for a quantum computer 1.
- An 8-qubit quantum computer can simultaneously represent and manipulate 256 (2^8) different states, thanks to the principles of superposition and entanglement [2].
- The growth of processing power is linear for classical computers (for example, going from 16 to 32 bits doubles the capacity), but exponential for quantum computers [2].
- For certain specific types of problems, a quantum computer could theoretically outperform the fastest classical supercomputers by several orders of magnitude 3.
This exponential processing capacity of quantum computers paves the way for solving complex problems currently beyond the reach of classical computers, particularly in fields such as cryptography, optimization, and molecular simulation.
Sources:
- (1) Quantum Computing vs Classical Computing – Berkeley Nucleonics
- (2) Quantum vs. Classical Computers: The Mind-Blowing Difference!
- (3) How Fast Are Quantum Computers? Key Insights Explained – SpinQ
Risks of Quantum Computers
Quantum computers pose a serious threat to current security systems. Once sufficiently advanced, they could exploit algorithms like Shor’s to break cryptography systems based on complex calculations (RSA, ECC), or use Grover’s algorithm to significantly speed up brute force attacks 1 2. This capability would jeopardize:
- The security of sensitive communications
- The integrity of financial transactions
- The confidentiality of personal and governmental data
- Military and industrial secrets 3 4
Experts warn that malicious actors could already be collecting encrypted data to decrypt later with a quantum computer, a phenomenon called “harvest now, decrypt later” 5 6. This threat, although not imminent, could have disastrous consequences if realized, underscoring the urgency of developing security solutions resistant to quantum attacks.
Sources:
- (1) What Will Quantum Computing Mean for Passwords Encryption?
- (2) Future(s) of CyberPeace: Quantum Computing, A Primer
- (3) When a Quantum Computer Is Able to Break Our Encryption, It Won’t …
- (4) Quantum Computers. Here’s How We Can Stop Them. – Live Science
- (5) Cybersecurity and Quantum Computing – PRIM’X
- (6) The Quantum Apocalypse Is Coming. Be Very Afraid – WIRED
Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC)
Post-quantum cryptography (PQC) emerges as a promising solution to the quantum threat. Researchers are actively developing algorithms resistant to quantum attacks, based on complex mathematical principles such as lattice-based or hash-based cryptography 1 2. The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) in the United States has already published standards for these new systems, marking a crucial step in the adoption of PQC 3. These algorithms aim to replace current encryption systems vulnerable to quantum computers, thus ensuring the longevity of data security in the post-quantum era.
Sources:
- (1) What Will Quantum Computing Mean for Passwords Encryption?
- (2) Future(s) of CyberPeace: Quantum Computing, A Primer
- (3) Post-Quantum Cryptography: Password Security in the Quantum Era
Proactive Data Migration
The proactive migration of data to quantum-resistant systems is a crucial step in anticipating the threat of quantum computers. Organizations are encouraged to adopt post-quantum cryptography solutions now to protect their sensitive information 1. This preventive approach aims to counter the “harvest now, decrypt later” strategy employed by malicious actors who could store encrypted data while waiting for sufficiently powerful quantum computers 2 3. By acting quickly, businesses and governments can thus preserve the long-term integrity of their secrets, even in the face of emerging advanced quantum computing capabilities.
Sources:
- (1) Post-Quantum Cryptography: Password Security in the Quantum Era
- (2) The Quantum Apocalypse Is Coming. Be Very Afraid – WIRED
- (3) When a Quantum Computer Is Able to Break Our Encryption, It Won’t …
International collaboration on security
In the face of the quantum threat, an unprecedented global mobilization is taking place. International initiatives involving governments, businesses, and academic institutions aim to standardize and deploy post-quantum cryptography methods before the advent of large-scale operational quantum computers 1 2. This cross-border collaboration is crucial for:
- Sharing knowledge and resources in quantum security
- Harmonizing standards for quantum-resistant cryptography
- Accelerating the development and adoption of innovative solutions
- Strengthening the global resilience of digital infrastructures against emerging threats
These joint efforts underline the importance of a coordinated approach to protect the integrity of global cyberspace in the post-quantum era 3.
Sources:
- (1) Future(s) of CyberPeace: Quantum Computing, A Primer
- (2) Cybersecurity and Quantum Computing – PRIM’X
- (3) When a Quantum Computer Is Able to Break Our Encryption, It Won’t …
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