Quick Take
Quantum computing (QC) is progressing rapidly and poses a major threat to current encryption methods. Technology leaders must proactively adopt post-quantum security measures to protect their data and infrastructure.
Why You Should Care
Quantum computing can potentially make existing cryptographic methods obsolete, exposing sensitive data and communications to serious vulnerabilities. The RSA and EDCSA algorithms, foundational to secure online communications, would be easily broken by quantum computers, undermining the confidentiality and integrity of digital data. Furthermore, cybercriminals could collect encrypted information now and decrypt it later when QC becomes available ("harvest now, decrypt later"), making it imperative to start transitioning to post-quantum security immediately.
What You Should Do Next
Evaluate your current cryptographic landscape to identify vulnerabilities to quantum threats and plan for the transition to post-quantum encryption standards.
Getting Started
- Identify applications using quantum-vulnerable algorithms like RSA and EDCSA and develop a plan for their replacement.
- Design systems with crypto agility to easily transition to new cryptographic algorithms as needed.
- Engage with third-party vendors to ensure they are also preparing for post-quantum security.
- Stay updated on developments in quantum computing and post-quantum cryptography.