Quantum Computing Already Putting Data at Risk, Cyber Pros Agree

It is encouraging to see that nearly half (45%) of the respondents to the Deloitte survey anticipate their organization will complete assessments of possible post-quantum encryption vulnerability vulnerabilities in the next 12 months. Another 16.2% predict this process will take place in the next two to 5 years.

Many organizations seem to be hesitant to adopt new cryptography methods.

Nearly a quarter of respondents (27.7%), believe that advances in quantum computing security risk within their organization will be driven by regulatory pressures to adopt policies or regulations or demands from leaders. Others said it would require a cyber-incident, such as the exfiltration of sensitive information, to motivate action (11.7%), or shareholder or client demand (6.8%).

Colin Soutar (Ph.D.), US quantum cyber readiness leader, Deloitte Risk & Financial Advisory managing Director, Deloitte & Touche LLP commented: “It is encouraging to see that so many of the organizations with quantum computing awareness recognize the security implications of this emerging technology. It’s important to remember that all organizations, regardless of whether they are considering using quantum computing, will be subject to ‘harvest first, decrypt later attacks.

“As quantum awareness increases within boardrooms and C-suites, we are hopeful that organizations will increase their efforts to prepare post-quantum risk management.”

Current work continues to develop quantum-secure encryption. The US Department of Commerce’s National Institute of Standards and Technology is currently in the process of choosing encryption algorithms that will be part of its post-quantum cryptographic standard (PQC).

In the Q3 Magazine, Benjamin David also explored the first commercial trial of a secured quantum metro network, and what it means for cybersecurity.

Infosecurity Magazine’s Online Summit-North America 2022 will feature a panel discussing how organizations can prepare to face the post-quantum age.