Quantum Computers Could Be Ultimate Hacking Tool

(Futurism) Significant security loopholes could crop up if hackers get their hands on powerful quantum computers before quantum-proof encryption methods become mainstream. The power of quantum computers could undermine current encryption methods in a matter of days. At least, that’s according to a new report by experts at the U.S. National Academics of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine.
Startups like ISARA, a Canadian firm, are already working on encryption methods that are resistant to quantum hacking. There is a wider push in the cryptographic community to come up with new encryption methods that can’t be cracked by quantum computers. The biggest challenge will be getting these widely adopted. The academies’ experts say negotiating standards, persuading vendors to follow them, and then getting organizations to upgrade their hardware and software can take years. Old data will also need to be reencrypted or destroyed.