As our world becomes increasingly digitized, cyber threats are growing rapidly. Plus, with the growth of the quantum computer market, we must expect that hackers will leverage this technology to create more efficient cyber threats.
Quantum computers are a significant upgrade, a leap into the future from classical computers. Many are skeptical of this technology and worry it might negatively impact cybersecurity. But what’s certain is that quantum computers will be more present in the future and that we’ll see their use for both good and bad actions.
This article will summarize the basics of quantum computing and some of the most helpful techniques to defend against cyber threats that leverage quantum computing. Quantum computers have a long way to go, but understanding them today can give you a competitive edge.
Quantum computing explained
Quantum computing has always had a pretentious tone, like something from a sci-fi movie. This computing leverages quantum mechanics to process information differently than classical computers.
Unlike classical computers, which mechanical and electrical engineering enthusiasts developed, quantum computers require top-notch experts in quantum mechanics. We don’t want to bash classical computers, but the next big quantum computing company couldn’t start with two passionate individuals in a garage as Apple did.
Classical computers use bits as the smallest unit of information, represented as either 0 or 1. On the other hand, quantum computers use quantum bits, or qubits, which can exist in multiple states simultaneously.
This concept is called superposition, and it is the most significant concept that gives quantum computers the potential to reach incredible speeds.
Like logical gates and circuits in traditional computing, quantum gates manipulate qubits through unitary transformations. Quantum circuits consist of multiple quantum gates.
Quantum computers also have exclusive algorithms. The two most important ones are Shor’s algorithm, which is used for factoring large numbers, and Grover’s algorithm, which is used for searching unsorted databases more efficiently than classical algorithms.
What problems does it bring?
Encryption methods rely on the fact that classical computers don’t have enough computing power to breach cryptographic algorithms such as RSA and ECC. However, the quantum threat lies in the idea that hackers can crack these algorithms using more advanced ones like Shor’s.
Once quantum computers reach the desired level of reliability and strength, current cryptographic algorithms will become obsolete.
Like passwords, encrypted data being transferred and stored can be decrypted, thus creating another security risk.
This will bring many changes in data regulations, as many companies will face fines if they don’t keep up with quantum computing’s security standards. Furthermore, quantum algorithms could break public key infrastructures essential for secure communications, digital signatures, and authentication.
Remember that quantum risks aren’t a problem now, but their future advancements can cause issues for individuals and companies. Even if that moment reaches us before we anticipate it, there are likely adequate defenses against it.
If quantum risks were to unfold suddenly, technological companies, government agencies, and other cybersecurity bodies would need to address them urgently.
Current downsides of quantum computing
Some quantum computers have shown incredible speeds compared to traditional computers, a concept known as “quantum supremacy.” However, these advantages are observable only in highly specialized tasks that rarely overlap with everyday processes.
Quantum computers excel in niche areas such as:
- Optimizing complex problems
- Simulating quantum systems
- Cryptographic analysis
Yet, they aren’t faster, cheaper, or more efficient on a broad scale than regular computers.
The difference is that quantum computers often make mistakes and require low operating temperatures. It’s a matter of time before we have quantum computers without any of these downsides, but it’s unlikely that this will come quickly.
While this field is developing, classic computers have been around for decades. They continue to improve, and many more experts and companies are working on them compared to quantum devices. Plus, quantum physics is a much more complex niche.
Key strategies for protecting against quantum computing threats
Now that we’ve covered some of the basics of quantum computers and explained their advantages and disadvantages, let’s discuss how to solve the cybersecurity threats that quantum computers can bring.
Most of these strategies include specialized defense against quantum computers and algorithms.
Leverage Sigma Rules
Unlike the other methods we’ll cover, Sigma Rules also apply to regular computers. They are a generic and open signature format for SIEM systems and are used to detect threats and anomalies.
They have a vast database of different cybersecurity threats and use them to understand whether an attack is happening. Sigma Rules are great because they’re standardized, and one can apply regulations for one system to a dozen without too much hassle.
This feature of Sigma Rules allows them to work really well for future developments in the cybersecurity landscape.
Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC)
Quantum security leverages encryption algorithms designed to defend systems against quantum computers. In this case, post-quantum cryptography refers to transitioning to algorithms believed to be secure against quantum attacks.
These include lattice-based, hash-based, and code-based cryptography. These cryptographic algorithms are much more secure than our current ones. Regulatory bodies are working on standardizing PQC algorithms.
The first group of PQC algorithms was standardized in 2022, with Kyber for key encapsulation and Dilithium, Falcon, and SPHINCS+ for digital signatures. We can expect global standardization and adoption just like previously with the security protocols we have now.
Quantum Key Distribution (QKD)
Cryptographic keys play a significant role in authentication. However, if we adopt quantum computing, we can’t rely on current methods of distributing public and private keys. As mentioned, they could become obsolete, leading to widespread security problems.
Instead, QKD uses the principles of quantum mechanics to secure key exchange processes. This means that the distribution of keys will be indistinguishable from quantum attacks.
Theoretically, eavesdroppers would be unable to intercept keys without being detected. This is because QKD would be based on laws of physics, ensuring long-term security for data transactions.
Of course, QKD won’t be implemented on its own. We can expect widespread changes in key distribution, from internet browsers to operating systems.
Hybrid Cryptographic Systems
This type of cryptographic system leverages reliable cryptographic algorithms used in traditional computers but combines them with quantum-resistant algorithms.
This will likely be widely adopted, allowing a gradual transition from traditional cybersecurity practices to quantum ones. Of course, the nature of each of those algorithms depends on whether this is possible.
Even if quantum cybersecurity protocols and algorithms quickly replace hybrid systems, they will likely be based on concepts we’ve always used in cybersecurity.
Quantum-Resistant Secure Communication Channels
Computer system security in a world of quantum computers will require new protocols, essential distribution methods, and improved communication channels.
Currently, we’re using protocols such as Bluetooth and Wi-Fi for short-range, LoRaWan for long-range, and HTTPS and MQTT for internet communication. They will likely be replaced or improved with quantum concepts in mind.
However, regardless of how these protocols are implemented in practice, their goal remains pretty much the same: to prevent eavesdroppers and other malicious individuals from unauthorized access.
Education of security teams
Whatever security requirements your company has, it will likely find great candidates. There are many cybersecurity experts, yet it’s challenging to find those specializing in quantum threats.
This is why it’s important to implement training and education programs for your current and future cybersecurity specialists. In the long run, you’ll build loyalty and ensure that your company is prepared for the next generation of cybersecurity threats.
Although this can take time and resources, it’s still a better option than fixing the problems these future threats can cause. Although this can be applied to all cybersecurity measures, the emphasis on it is even greater in quantum computing, as we’ve yet to see the damage that these threats can cause.
Collaboration with industry and academia
With quantum computing still in its early stages compared to classical computing, regular IT experts aren’t enough.
Companies will need to have joint operations to understand and thrive in the quantum computing industry. Furthermore, partnerships with individuals from academia trained in the multidisciplinary field of quantum computing will be extremely valuable.
Prepare your defenses against future threats
Although quantum computers, at this point, aren’t able to complete many tasks faster than classic computers, their use in cybersecurity can become a significant breakthrough. A quantum computer could crack passwords like a regular computer would do in a million years.
Yet, it’s likely that better cybersecurity technology will closely follow cyber threats powered by quantum computing. At this point, we already have the mentioned strategies for protecting against quantum computing threats. But the best is yet to come.
However, as this field develops, we can expect more next-gen cybersecurity methods to emerge. Scientists in governmental institutions or multinational corporations mainly research quantum computing. It will take some time before we see the widespread adoption of quantum computers.