Quantum Unreadiness in Cybersecurity | Impact Analysis

Quantum unreadiness has become an infamous buzzword in the field of cybersecurity. As quantum computing, along with its security threats, is emerging, quantum unreadiness is a way to downfall. From enterprises to government entities, from communication to collaboration, and from data protection to data transmission, quantum security is inevitable, as it helps organisations become immune to cyberattacks.

The cost of unreadiness is not widely acknowledged or understood; the awareness of quantum threats is also limited. Let’s unearth and analyse the impact of being unprepared for the quantum era.

Understanding Quantum Unreadiness

Definition: Quantum unreadiness (n) is a state of cybersecurity when an organisation is unprepared, unplanned and unequipped for the impacts of quantum computing and quantum threats.

Is it risky?

• Existing security systems employ outdated encryption methods, which are already vulnerable to breaches. (NIST Special Publication)  
• Quantum computers are surfacing, and 68% of organisations believe that quantum will break today’s encryption. (Data Threat Report)  
• Customer trust, company reputation & collective revenue are at risk.  
• Only 5% of the organisations are quantum-safe. (Security Magazine)
• 57.5% of decision-makers expect quantum attacks within 3 years. (Data Science Report)

To be quantum-ready is the only way out. It is not a question of ‘whether you are doing it or not.’ Instead, it is a question of ‘when you are doing it.’

Main reasons for quantum unreadiness

• Lack of awareness
• Reactive security operations (not proactive)
• Integration & scalability issues

Why Quantum Unreadiness is Data Security Suicide?

Quantum unreadiness is similar to digital data security suicide. With every organisation having sufficient time to equip their digital infrastructure, insufficient preparation is not a strategic option but a willing surrender.

Organisations don’t risk their sensitive data. It occurs due to a severe lack of awareness about what it entails. Here is a scenario of what it would be like in the post-quantum era following a cyberattack.

Data Loss to Backlash

If breached, organisations face severe reputational damage along with data loss. The backlash from customers, partners and stakeholders becomes a hurdle for the brand.

Superiority to Vulnerability

With a robust security infrastructure, technology will enable them to scale up more quickly. With vulnerable systems and processes, entities and enterprises lose their position of superiority and become susceptible to attacks.

Strategising to Scaffolding

Leaders should focus on strategies to meet market needs and expand their business rather than fire-fighting cyberattacks. Scaffoldings are not shields, just like yesterday’s security encryptions are not.

Skyrocketing to Surrendering

Business is for customers. And for growth. Surrendering to cyberattacks is not even a distant thought. However, not taking action or delaying action will lead to surrendering instead of skyrocketing to greater heights in revenue.

Hiding to Haunting

Cyber attackers have started downloading the data, although they can’t decrypt it yet. They will continue to harvest the data and then go into hiding. Once they have access to quantum computers, they will start haunting by committing regular breaches with the data they have already taken from organisations.

With timely action and by becoming quantum-safe, organisations can avoid such untoward situations.  

When to be quantum ready?

Last year. Or… Now.  

Many IT experts believe it is already too late to initiate quantum security solutions, given the numerous advancements and launches in quantum computing.  

It is just a matter of time. Once Q-Day hits, there is no going back. Hence, it is highly recommended to add quantum cryptography to the pipeline and initiate it as a critical imperative.  

How to be quantum ready?

There are just three simple steps to become quantum-ready for any type of organisation.

Sorting the sensitive data

Complete a detailed audit of your organisation’s data and risk posture.  ‍

Improve crypto-agility

Crypto agility refers to the ability of an organisation to transition rapidly from one type of encryption to another. It adds flexibility to adopt any advanced encryption methods, such as quantum.  

Strengthen with quantum solutions

Once your organisation is crypto-agile, it’s time to scale it up with quantum security solutions.  

Partner with the world’s leading quantum security partner, QNu, for end-to-end quantum-safe encryption.  

Book a demo.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can small organisations become quantum-safe?

Quantum applies to all types of organisations, irrespective of size and location. Any entity that uses computers, networks, and the internet and that handles sensitive information can and should adopt futuristic encryption.  

Can we wait until 2027 to initiate quantum cybersecurity?

Migrating from traditional cryptography to quantum cryptography is a time-consuming process. It involves various stakeholders, resources, and unprecedented delays. So, it is always recommended to initiate the process as early as possible to be threat-free in the quantum era.  

Which is the best quantum company for cybersecurity?

QNu Labs is the best quantum security company, providing end-to-end quantum solutions. QNu offers both hardware and software solutions for quantum cybersecurity, ensuring faster integration without disrupting the existing infrastructure.