How Will Quantum Computing Impact Industrial Cybersecurity?

Summary

Quantum computing is a quickly evolving field that applies physics principles to solve complex problems, using quantum bits (qubits) rather than classical computer bits to make calculations much faster than conventional computers can. Although it has not yet had real-world industrial cybersecurity impacts, those familiar with the matter caution that now is the time to understand the potential effects and which are most likely to happen.

Experts began moving beyond the theoretical realm to examine potential real-world applications for quantum computing in the 1980s. However, it was not until the 2020s that widespread cybersecurity concerns emerged. Many of them relate to how quantum computers could break the technologies used to encrypt data.
 

Potential applications for quantum computing in manufacturing

Most efforts to use quantum computing remain in the early stages, but they are still exciting. In one example, Volkswagen Group leaders partnered with a Canadian quantum technology company to launch a multiyear research project. Participants hope their collaboration will reveal viable ways to apply quantum computing to battery development and material selection.
 
In another case, researchers developed quantum machine learning algorithms to detect additive manufacturing accuracy. Their results showed this approach was on par with conventional algorithms used for this purpose, but quantum computing required exponentially fewer parameters. That benefit could let people train algorithms faster and rely on them to monitor printer states sooner.
 
Quantum computing could also enable more efficient process improvements or data analysis work. However, as these applications emerge, people within and outside the manufacturing sector must understand the cybersecurity challenges the technology may cause.
 

Changing the type and scale of cyberattacks

One likely scenario is that quantum computing will enable new cyber threats and make successful attacks more disruptive. One reason is that it will eventually break existing cryptographic methods that protect information. Some cybercriminals have already begun seizing large quantities of valuable information, intending to hold onto it until quantum computers can render the existing protective measures ineffective.
 
In 2024, cybersecurity experts studied existing quantum computing risks and recommended to the White House how to prepare for them. They noted how cybercriminals’ intentions to seize information now and decrypt it with quantum technology later endanger privacy, national security and other essentials, making it an important cybersecurity matter.
 
Industrial cybersecurity professionals should stay informed about the latest developments to recognize potential threats and prepare for them before it is too late. Staying abreast of university research is one of the most accessible ways to remain informed, especially since the respective schools usually have dedicated websites and press release feeds. Attending networking events with quantum computing and industrial cybersecurity experts also keeps knowledge current.
 

Requiring proactiveness now

Since no one knows when quantum computers will be capable of causing widespread cybersecurity problems, some industrial decision-makers may use that uncertainty to become complacent, thinking they have years to act. However, the better solution is to anticipate the threats and invest in strategies to reduce them.
 
Singapore’s telecommunications industry has emerged as a leader in this regard. Participants partnered with a government department to build a quantum-safe network to protect all the businesses connected to it. The components of the planned nationwide infrastructure will be interoperable, promoting seamless connectivity. Those involved with these networks say they will allow businesses to explore the viability of specific quantum use cases, helping them prepare for wider rollouts.
 
Industrial employees involved in cybersecurity training for the workforce should also begin exploring how quantum computing may affect their curriculums. However, they must reassure concerned workers that whatever the future holds does not affect current best practices.
 
For example, creating strong, unique passwords is always wise. Although many people reuse credentials across sites to make them easier to remember, that decision gives hackers more access by reducing what they must do to gain unauthorized access. Some criminals attempt thousands of password combinations to break into accounts. Creating ones of at least 16 characters makes it harder for them to succeed with this method.
 

Worsening existing threats

When the 5G network was under development, many analysts agreed it would create mixed results for industrial users. Although the technological improvements would allow entities such as manufacturers to use technologies like robots and augmented reality with virtually no latency, the increased number of industrial assets connected to the 5G infrastructure would encourage cybercriminals to target it.
 
Some people worry that the rise of quantum computing could have similarly adverse effects, especially when viewed in the context of other emerging technologies. One recent study showed 95% of developers feel concerned about quantum computing’s effects. However, some believe decentralized physical infrastructure networks (DePIN) could show a way forward. Those options reduce the likelihood of single failure points, making entire networks inoperable. Exploring the possibilities of those and similar industrial-suited solutions could create a more cyber-secure future.
 
Industrial decision-makers should also consider applying quantum computing to their processes carefully once the associated technologies are sufficiently developed. Then, they can begin exploring the best ways to protect essential data and connected processes from potential cyberattacks. A good starting point is to examine the protective mechanisms for a company’s data in case quantum computing can eventually break the encryption, as many cybersecurity experts expect.
 
In just one year, more than 422 million Americans experienced data breaches. It is easy to imagine how quantum computing advancements could substantially increase that figure, especially if industrial leaders do not begin planning now.
 

Impacting the future

Although no one can predict with certainty how quantum computing will affect cybersecurity, much of the emerging research shows there will likely be new risks. People who protect industrial data must accept that reality and remain alert to assess new, viable ways to combat the threats.