Quantum Computing and Cybersecurity: how to prepare your organization for the next generation of risks
Cybersecurity · 2 min
Articles by Luís Carvalho
Quantum computing could profoundly alter how we protect information. Discover why it's important to start preparing your organization for this new paradigm today.
TL;DR
- Quantum computing could compromise currently used cryptographic algorithms
- Data with a long confidentiality period requires early preparation
- Inventorying cryptographic assets is the recommended first step
- Transition will be gradual, depending on technological provider evolution
- Preparing today reduces risks and facilitates future migrations
Why this topic already deserves attention
While quantum computing is still in an evolving stage, its potential impact on cybersecurity is widely recognized by the scientific community and major standardization bodies. Currently used cryptographic algorithms may cease to offer the same level of protection when quantum computers capable enough to execute certain types of attacks become available. For this reason, organizations that store sensitive information for long periods should start preparing their transition strategy now.
The risk begins before the technology exists
One of the most discussed scenarios is known as Harvest Now, Decrypt Later. In this model, an attacker can collect encrypted information today and store it for several years, waiting for the evolution of quantum computing to allow them to decrypt it in the future. This risk is particularly relevant for information that needs to remain confidential for long periods, such as intellectual property, legal documentation, financial data, or clinical information.
Preparing the organization
Preparation does not mean immediately replacing all cryptographic infrastructure. Key recommendations include: - [identifying where cryptography is used](/en/solutions/post-quantum-readiness); - understanding which systems are most critical; - keeping up with new international standards; - involving suppliers in defining their evolutionary plans; - incorporating the topic into technological risk management processes. A phased approach reduces complexity and distributes investment over time.
The role of new standards
NIST has been developing and publishing new post-quantum cryptographic algorithms that will serve as the basis for the next generation of security solutions. As software, equipment, and [cloud service providers](/en/solutions/cloud) incorporate these mechanisms, organizations can initiate migration processes gradually and controlled.
A strategic decision
Preparation for quantum computing should not be seen as an exclusively technological project. As occurred with other major changes in cybersecurity, it will be necessary to involve technical teams, top management, technology partners, and information governance managers. The earlier a plan exists, the smaller the impact of the future transition.
Conclusion
Quantum computing represents one of the greatest future challenges for information protection. While there is still time to prepare for the transition, organizations that start planning now will be better positioned to protect their critical assets and keep up with the evolution of new cryptographic standards in a sustained manner.