It sounds like something out of a science fiction movie, but it isn’t. Quantum technology is no longer an abstract scientific concept and is becoming increasingly present in our daily lives. Experts warn that we are close to a transition to this new era, which could transform some sectors entirely economically and create unprecedented risks, especially when it comes to digital security. But what does this mean for individuals and businesses? And why the rush to prepare? Learn more about it.
The scientific revolution that promises to change everything
Studies indicate that quantum computers would operate completely differently from the traditional machines we’re used to. Current computers are designed to process information in bits (0s and 1s), while quantum models use qubits, a measurement capable of representing multiple states simultaneously. This means the machine would be capable of performing very complex calculations in a matter of seconds. Typically, this is something that would take years for standard computers.
This technological advancement is expected to have the potential to accelerate medical discoveries, optimize supply chains, and even create new materials that would be impossible to develop today. “We’re talking about a leap forward that could redefine entire industries,” says James Carter, a researcher in emerging technologies.
However, despite the positive points raised, experts look at the topic from a perspective beyond its benefits. Concerning challenges arise. One is the technology’s ability to break current encryption systems. This would be a dangerous development for the technology, as it puts banking, government, and personal data at risk.
The invisible threat of digital security breaches
There’s a situation involving quantum technology that worries experts: the so-called “Q-Day.” This name refers to the day when quantum computers will be powerful enough to break encryption, the technology used to protect almost all digital information in the world. If and when this happens, passwords, digital contracts, and even confidential communications could be unduly exposed.
The concern about this possibility is real, and governments and companies believe that hackers have already begun storing data today in hopes of decrypting it in the future, when technology becomes available to enable this. This means that an email sent now, no matter how secure it may seem, could be read in the future and have dire consequences.
The global race to develop quantum-resistant encryption systems is already a practice adopted by major powers in the current scenario. Banks and technology companies—such as the famous Silicon Valley startups—are investing their studies, research, and development in solutions known as “post-quantum.” But of course, this study is still very limited and its adoption is still slow.
What could this development in quantum technology mean for the world?
The fact that this awareness is growing in the quantum technology development landscape is a good sign. Some countries, such as the United States, Japan, and Germany, have already created strategies to boost research into quantum science and thus strengthen digital security. The idea is for companies to begin preparing for this technology in the near future (such as JPMorgan’s Texas data center).
For societies outside this economic and scientific sphere, it is not necessary to understand the technical details of quantum mechanics, but rather to monitor how these changes will impact digital security. It will be necessary to update software, use multi-factor authentication, and stay abreast of news about new forms of protection.
What once seemed far away is no longer: the quantum era may be very close, closer than we imagined. With advances being made every month, global powers would benefit from preparation. For governments, companies, and citizens, planning and taking security measures for personal data is one of the best ways to ensure this revolution brings benefits, not crises.