Why in the News?

MeitY, CERT-In, and cybersecurity firm SISA jointly launched a whitepaper titled "Transitioning to Quantum Cyber Readiness" to prepare for disruptive potential of quantum technologies, especially in cybersecurity.

More on the news

• The whitepaper warned that Quantum computers pose a serious threat to current encryption algorithms by breaking asymmetric cryptographic protocols such as Rivest-Shamir-Adleman (RSA).
  • Quantum computers can solve complex, intractable mathematical problems - and perform tasks in machine learning, optimization, and logistics - orders of magnitude faster than conventional computers. 
• As per the paper, any data requiring protection beyond 2030 should be considered at immediate risk.

Cyber Threats related to Quantum Technology

• Harvest Now, Decrypt Later (HNDL) Attacks: These attacks involve adversaries collecting and storing encrypted data today with the intention of decrypting it once quantum computers become capable of breaking current cryptographic systems.
• Secure channel decryption: Quantum computing can break encrypted network communications and "listen in" on sensitive conversations like defence communications. 
• Signature impersonation: Quantum computing can enable attackers to forge digital certificates, enabling malware distribution and targeted phishing.
• New "Zero-Day" vulnerabilities: This includes the potential for yet unknown quantum algorithms to break existing cryptographic systems and challenges associated with transitioning to quantum-resistant cryptography.

Way Forward: Roadmap for Quantum Cyber Readiness recommended by whitepaper

Conclusion

The quantum revolution is inevitable, but organizations that act decisively and strategically will not only protect their data from quantum risks but also lead the way in shaping a quantum-resilient future.