Australia’s government has given a $1 billion boost to the quantum computing industry, aiming to create the world’s first commercial-scale quantum computer. Quantum computing utilizes subatomic particles to store data and perform calculations, with qubits having the ability to exist between the binary states of zero and one, significantly increasing computing power. However, current quantum computers are limited in size and require extremely low temperatures to function properly. There is also a need for error-corrected quantum systems to prevent data loss or errors during calculations.
Funding for quantum technology is increasing, and advancements are happening rapidly. Once error-corrected, large-scale quantum computing becomes a reality, quantum hacking could pose a threat. Due to the potential vulnerabilities of quantum computers, bad actors are already hoarding data to decrypt once quantum hacking becomes feasible. To protect data from quantum attacks, researchers are developing new cryptography algorithms that are resistant to quantum computing capabilities. These algorithms, based on lattice problems, are much harder for quantum computers to solve compared to traditional encryption methods like RSA.
The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) has introduced new encryption algorithms designed to withstand quantum attacks, with three of the four algorithms based on lattices. However, a recent claim by a cryptographer suggesting that quantum computers could potentially solve lattice problems and compromise these algorithms caused panic in the cybersecurity community. Fortunately, the claim was retracted after researchers identified a bug in the algorithm, reassuring experts that the lattice-based encryption methods are still secure. Companies like Microsoft and Google are already incorporating these new algorithms into their cybersecurity systems, but the process takes time and further research is needed to ensure their resilience.
While the government predicts that widespread “cryptographically relevant” quantum technology, known as Q-Day, is still more than two decades away, it is crucial to prepare for the potential risks posed by quantum hacking. As our world becomes increasingly digitized and reliant on encryption for online transactions and communications, being unprepared for Q-Day could have catastrophic consequences. Researchers continue to explore more resilient cryptography algorithms and work towards securing our digital infrastructure from potential quantum threats.
