What Are Quantum Attacks?
“Quantum attack” is a phrase we might hear in passing on the news — or at least we might do in the future, according to industry experts. But do we actually understand what a quantum attack is? The likelihood is no. But that’s what the experts are here for. Let’s start with the basics. Quantum computers are made using elements of quantum physics — like quantum theory. They can solve much more complex problems than even the most powerful computers can, including algorithms that could potentially break the encryption keys that protect our sensitive data.
Right now, these computers don’t quite have enough processing power to present a serious threat to our data, but the likelihood is that in the future, we could start to see more and more of these “quantum attacks”. This could, in turn, cause a devastating impact on and threat to key public algorithms. We recommend that you do as much as you can now to protect your company from the cyber threats of the future, regardless of the size of your business.
With the way things are heading, industry experts say the potential for these threats will grow alongside developing quantum technology and methods. If things continue to develop as predicted, attackers could potentially harness limitless processing power and break the confidentiality of encrypted data files.
Who Is at Risk of Quantum Attacks?
These attacks could threaten the data of all commercial organisations, especially those with a large network of encrypted sensitive information like central government organisations. Other organisations that hold sensitive data about individuals — including healthcare, social services, criminal justice records, nuclear energy, and more — are increasingly at risk.
What Quantum Threats Does Your Company Face?
Potential quantum threats that your company could face include:
- Foreign intelligence services are a quantum threat that large organisations face as these intelligence agencies attempt to gather classified information.
- Politically motivated internal attackers looking to collect classified information and data to assist in political success.
- New, cloud-native threats are a risk that come with increased use of the cloud within organisations and developing quantum technology, meaning your data could potentially be at even further risk.
What Can You Do to Prepare for a Quantum Attack?
As quantum cryptography methods develop, security levels across all organisations need to make sure they keep up. The only sure way to do this is to ensure that our current protective measures for classic computers are further protected against quantum attacks. The last thing you want to do is spend years building quantum-safe methods into your systems, only to be hacked by classic malware because you forgot about the old-school methods of attack.
With that covered, you will want quantum-safe cryptography and quantum-safe methods to the best of your ability. However, the best way to be sure that you’re prepared for a quantum attack in the future is to hire a professional.
Outsource Your IT Protection
When it comes to something as serious as cybersecurity — especially with the growing threat of quantum attacks — it can be a smart move to leave it to the experts. Professionals with years of training and experience specifically to maximise your protection and build up your defences means outsourcing your cyber security services has tons of benefits. Here are a few:
- High-quality services, tools and products expertly crafted to protect your data.
- Detailed reports to keep you up to date with your cyber defence strategy.
- Staff training with expert accredited trainers to ensure you’re fully prepared.
- Continuous support suited to your individual requirements as quantum technology develops.
Speak to an expert today and stop taking unnecessary risks regarding quantum attacks and protecting your data. As a continuous and growing threat to data protection as we know it, changes need to be thoroughly assessed and effectively executed, which is why we always recommend utilising an experienced outsourced cybersecurity service.
