Hybrid Event: What Does it Mean to be Quantum Safe?

Stepping into the quantum era, the Government's visionary approach anticipates achieving Quantum-Safe Systems across diverse sectors by 2030.

quantum, security

IBM laboratory, scientists in front of a sophisticated quantum computer

The rapid maturation of quantum computers is an awe-inspiring phenomenon that promises to revolutionize problem-solving as we know it. These extraordinary machines possess the potential to conquer challenges that have long been deemed insurmountable using classical computing methods. However, amidst this thrilling progress, a looming global challenge emerges - the formidable prospect that quantum computers may render some of the most widely-used security protocols in the world vulnerable and susceptible to breaches.

As the power and capabilities of quantum computers continue to grow exponentially, they encroach upon the domain of tasks that were once considered impervious to computational prowess. These enigmatic devices harness the principles of quantum mechanics, entangling qubits in a superposition of states, and wielding an extraordinary ability to process vast amounts of data simultaneously. You can read more of that here. It is this very characteristic that allows quantum computers to soar beyond the limitations of classical counterparts, raising hopes of unlocking groundbreaking advancements in fields ranging from medicine to materials science.

IBM co-created crucial first quantum-safe algorithms and delivers industry-first quantum-safe technology and services.

IBM Quantum Research laboratory, Zygmunt Lozinski pictured in front of IBM’s Quantum computers

It is essential to grapple with the undeniable consequence of this quantum revolution - the potential disruption of conventional encryption methods. Many of the pillars of our digital security infrastructure, which protect sensitive data, financial transactions and communication networks, rely on encryption algorithms that rely on the difficulty of factoring large numbers, such as RSA encryption. Quantum computers possess the capacity to perform these factorization tasks with unprecedented ease, rendering previously robust encryption vulnerable to decryption.

The looming threat of cryptographic upheaval has sparked considerable research and efforts to develop quantum-resistant cryptographic techniques, collectively known as post-quantum cryptography. These novel methods endeavor to withstand the computational onslaught that quantum computers bring, ensuring the security and privacy of our digital realm even in the face of quantum supremacy.

With the integration of IBM Quantum Safe technology, the system undergoes a transformative upgrade, fortified by cutting-edge quantum-safe cryptography. PHOTO IBM

While it may be tempting to view this challenge solely through a lens of impending risk, it also presents a unique opportunity to reevaluate and reinforce our cyber infrastructure. The pursuit of quantum-resistant cryptography pushes the boundaries of human ingenuity, calling forth collaborations between mathematicians, physicists and computer scientists, seeking to design novel cryptographic protocols that can withstand the most potent quantum adversaries.

Moreover, quantum computers themselves might paradoxically hold the key to mitigating the risks they pose. Quantum key distribution (QKD) is a fascinating quantum cryptographic technique that leverages the principles of quantum mechanics to establish an unbreakable cryptographic key between parties, guaranteeing secure communication. By harnessing the very essence of quantum phenomena, QKD offers a tantalizing solution to the encryption dilemma, where quantum computers themselves are instrumental in preserving the sanctity of information.

A cyber criminal equipped with a powerful quantum computer could potentially crack widely-used encryption algorithms with ease, rendering current security protocols vulnerable. The inherent computational superiority of quantum computing threatens to undermine the confidentiality and integrity of sensitive data, allowing malicious actors to intercept communications, steal sensitive information, and compromise critical systems. Implementing quantum-safe cryptography becomes imperative to safeguard against these future threats and ensure data protection in the quantum era.

Cryptography serves as the foundational pillar of trust and security in our modern society, impacting every system from communication to financial transactions. It safeguards sensitive data, such as personal information, banking details, and government communications, ensuring privacy and preventing unauthorized access. For example, secure communication over the internet relies on encryption protocols like SSL/TLS to protect data during online transactions, while cryptographic algorithms secure passwords and user credentials, safeguarding access to various systems and applications we’re using every day.

As we confront the juxtaposition of quantum computers' breathtaking capabilities and the need to fortify our digital fortresses, it is vital to foster open dialogues between the scientific community, policymakers, and industry leaders. Together, we must navigate this uncharted territory, devising strategies that encourage the responsible and equitable development of quantum technologies while safeguarding the foundations of our interconnected world.

Speaker Biographies

Kate Marshall: Versatile IT architect, developer, and DevOps engineer with a strong background in Physics, particularly quantum theory. Currently at IBM Quantum, she contributes to building software for real quantum hardware experiments and leads the global team of IBM Quantum Ambassadors.

Zygmunt Lozinski: Ambitious to ensure network safety worldwide, Zygmunt focuses on bringing quantum safety to millions of devices and network elements. With extensive global client experience and specialization in Telco Cloud and security, he is dedicated to advancing quantum-safe network solutions. IEEE member and Imperial College London alumnus.

Luke Ibbeston - Head of Group R&D at Vodafone Group

Lory Thorpe - Global Solutions & Offerings, Industry Partner Telecommunications at IBM