Quantum computing is a reinvention of traditional computing. While traditional computers use bits to represent information, quantum computers leverage qubits. Qubits encode information on subatomic particles that represent a quantum superposition of 1 and 0, or the probabilistic representation of a classic bit. This phenomenon is what allows quantum computers to solve problems in seconds that would take current computers thousands of years to solve, and why every country in the world is watching developments in this area so closely.1
However, there is a reason not every house in America has a quantum computer. Qubits are significantly more difficult to control and require an environment colder than space to remain stable due to the energy released during the process. Decoherence, the interaction of qubits with their environment that leads to the decay of their quantum behavior, also makes quantum computers more prone to errors than modern computers.2 Due to this, it will take years of research and major investments until quantum computers are widely available. While quantum computing offers the potential of incredible breakthroughs, it also brings unprecedented cybersecurity challenges. This article will explore these challenges and outline steps you can take to help safeguard your business.
What New Cybersecurity Risks Do Quantum Computers Pose?
Despite quantum computers not yet being widely available, the cybersecurity risks they pose are already being discussed.3 The following risks are already well known and need to be addressed before quantum computing is implemented at larger scales:
- Breaking Modern Encryption Algorithms – Modern encryption is effective against current technology but will become obsolete when quantum computers are used to factorize the larger integers upon which the algorithms are based. This will break asymmetric encryption and allow for threat actors to decrypt sensitive data in minutes that would’ve previously taken thousands of years. We’re already seeing threat actors steal encrypted data today with the hope of decrypting it using quantum computing in the future.
- Quicker Discovery of New Zero Days – The quicker processing capabilities of quantum computers will also allow threat actors to quickly identify zero days, or previously unknown vulnerabilities, in systems and applications that can be exploited and compromised.
- New Regulations & Compliance – As with any new technology, there will be regulations and new compliance requirements your enterprise will be required to comply with.4
Steps Your Business Can Take Now to Prepare
As with any risk, there are steps you and your company can take today to prepare for quantum’s impact in the future:
- Review Your Current Cybersecurity Posture – Understanding your current cybersecurity posture and environment is key to helping protect your IT assets in the future. Performing risk assessments and gap analyses are great ways to provide confidence that your cybersecurity foundation is strong.
- Raise Awareness & Have Conversations Internally About Quantum Technology’s Impact – Awareness is a key part of any cybersecurity practice, and the same holds true for the impact of quantum computers. Have conversations with key stakeholders and begin curating policies to help ensure alignment on quantum’s future impact.
- Research & Implement Post-Quantum Cryptography – The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) and other regulatory bodies have already begun developing and releasing post-quantum cryptography algorithms that your organization can take advantage of. While not all these standards are ready to be employed, researching these algorithms and being aware as more become available will put your organization ahead of the curve when quantum computers do become more widely available.
How Forvis Mazars Can Help
We can support your organization to help cybersecurity practices today to prepare for the new technologies of tomorrow. Together, we can find gaps, build a plan, and help put your team ahead of the quantum curve. For more insights, read our cyber trends and tips for 2025 and watch our archived webinar, The Resurgence of Manufacturing: Harnessing Technology for the Future. If you have any questions or need assistance, please reach out to one of our cybersecurity professionals at Forvis Mazars.