Fri, 21 Feb 2025

Fri, 21 Feb 2025 Will quantum computers disrupt critical infrastructure?

Quantum computers will be able to crack existing encryption and threaten critical infrastructure.

* Quantum computers use qubits that exist in multiple states simultaneously, making them much more efficient and powerful than classical computers.
* The problem is that many of the same mathematical problems underpinning today's encryption algorithms are also solvable by quantum computers, which could crack current encryption standards in minutes.
* The impact of a widespread quantum computing capability could be immediate, with encryption protecting daily banking transactions potentially becoming trivial to break.
* Researchers and industry experts have been working on solutions, including new post-quantum encryption standards released by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) in August.
* However, the upgrade process required to transition to these new standards will be massive and complex, involving billions of devices and systems worldwide.
* The challenge extends into space, with many satellites needing upgrades to protect sensitive information from potential quantum computing-based attacks.
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