Future quantum computers might pose a threat to today’s most-secure communications.
Quantum computers are impressively faster than our current computers and are capable of code-breaking applications. Quantum computers may be available soon after 12 to 15 years. These quantum controls could pose security threats to our current communication system, according to RAND Corporation.
These threats can be managed if the govt takes rapid actions to manage these future challenges, as per the report.
Lead author of the repots & a physical scientist at nonprofit, nonpartisan RAND, Michael Vermeer said, “If an adequate implementation of new security measures has not taken place by the time capable quantum computers are developed, it may become impossible to ensure secure authentication and communication privacy without major, disruptive changes.”
“The United States has the means and very likely enough time to avert a quantum disaster and build a safer future, but only if it begins preparations now”, He said.
Standards protocol drafts for pots quantum cryptography that can maintain the current level of computing security are expected to be released within the next 5 years. However, the nationwide or global transition needed to implement these protocols over to quantum computing would realistically take decades.
According to the report, an interoperable standard for post-quantum cryptography can be widely implemented, the more eventually risk will be diminished. The RAND Researchers demand that the Government required to create and implement new policies. Risk minimizing measures, government approach & a Sence of urgency is needed to establish a safe future communication infrastructure.
A co-author of the reports & an economist at RAND, Evan Peet stated,” The advent of quantum computers presents a retroactive risk because the information is securely communicated today without Postquantum Cryptography may be captured and held by others now in order to be decrypted and revealed later once quantum computers are created.”
He said that this presents a vulnerability that urgently needs to be addressed. The nation could obtain the enormous benefits expected from quantum computing while enhancing privacy & security.