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Post-Quantum Ready : Quantum Computers Threats Explained

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Quantum Computing

What is Quantum Computing? Understanding Cyber Security and Quantum.

All computers, since their creation, use a language called binary, with switches that can either be “on” or “off”, representing a 1 or a 0. This has powered computers worldwide for over over 60 years, however, with quantum computing, newer and greater things will be possible, beyond what traditional supercomputers are capable of.

Quantum computing, however, throws this outdated language out the window, instead replacing it with qubits. Qubits can be in the form of both a 1 and a 0 at the same time, and neither at all; by combining these possibilities and creating new ones, advanced and complex calculations are enabled to be done by these quantum computers in mere seconds.

Qubits made simple

Think of a qubit like a coin being flipped. While the coin is in the air it is in a state where both heads and tales are possible, and it is not possible to predict the outcome. Until the coin lands and there is  one outcome, heads or tales. This is the same for qubits where they can either be 0 or 1, and when goes through a filter which is explained in the next paragraph, it conforms to one state either 0 or 1.

Decoherence

This phenomenon is called superposition, representing multiple values simultaneously. However, once a qubit is sent through a filter, it collapses into one of two states. A filter is just something that specifies to the qubits a range of forms they should take, this could be a frequency, or energy levels. This “environment noise”, can be temperature changes, electromagnetic radiation, and even vibrations can cause them to lose their quantum properties, a phenomenon called decoherence.

Superposition

Provided they are unobserved, qubits are constantly in a “superposition” of 0 or 1. This means it is impossible to predict what value they hold. To add to this uncertainty, the potential combination of what a qubit could be grows exponentially all the while more qubits are being added to the system.

Qubits

However, it is still possible to observe the value of a qubit. Through a process known as “entanglement”, qubits can become attached to one another, meaning that the state of a singular qubit has a direct impact on every other qubit in the system. This is regardless of distance or any other similar factors.

This can be made simple by going back to our flip of a coin analogy. Think of it like there are two or more coins, that when you flip them both, they always land on the same face.

What does Quantum mean for Cyber Security?

Traditional encryption methods

Traditional encryption methods could be in big trouble as quantum computing advances. Quantum computers have the potential to break systems such as RSA and ECC (which are both public-key encryption algorithms), which are currently the backbone of online security. This puts online banking and communication sectors at high risk to this new technology.

Asymmetrical encryption is at risk becase quantum computers could use the public key to decode the private key.

Quantum safe encryption could be used to fight back against this.

Quantum keys

Quantum key distribution could theoretically create unbreakable encryption, making it almost impossible for hackers to intercept and steal keys.

Quantum resistant algorithms

Some other discoveries made possible through quantum computing include quantum resistant algorithms and the ability to detect threats faster. Quantum resistant algorithms are cryptographic methods designed specifically to withstand quantum attacks.

Quantum resistant algorithms use more complex mathematical problems, which are not so easy for quantum computers to solve. This can be used to detect threats faster, which could give us the ability to detect breaches before they happen.

While there are lots of risks and vulnerabilities realised by quantum computing; there are many new opportunities for cyber organisations to grow into. By combatting these new threats with new tools and measures, we can stay one step ahead of cyber threats and criminals.

By partnering with Mondas, businesses can gain valuable insights, expertise, and support to evaluate their current quantum readiness. Taking action now will position organisations for a successful future in this evolving landscape, get in touch today.