Rani Ravinthran | Cyber Tech and Space Fellow
FMN Laboratory team assembling the cryogenic part of the quantum computer, which provides cooling of superconducting processors to almost absolute zero. Image sourced from FMN Lab via Wikimedia Commons.
Australia's cybersecurity landscape has been affected by recent advances in quantum computing, which harbour both intriguing prospects and formidable threats. Chiefly, quantum computing may quickly overpower existing encryption techniques and data security. Consequently, a prompt and thorough reconsideration of digital defences on both national and international levels is required over the next few years as this technology improves.
A new area of technology called quantum computing uses the ideas of quantum physics to process data in ways that traditional computers are unable to. Quantum computers employ quantum bits, or qubits, which can exist in several states simultaneously due to a phenomenon called superposition. Traditional computers store and process information using bits (0s and 1s).
Because of this basic distinction, quantum computers can execute some calculations at a speed tenfold quicker than classical computers, especially those associated with cryptography, optimisation, and the simulation of quantum systems. A worldwide competition to create workable, large-scale quantum computers has been ignited by the potential of quantum computing.
This seriously threatens many current encryption techniques, especially those that depend on the difficulty of factoring huge numbers or solving discrete logarithmic problems. According to University of Sydney academics, sufficiently powerful quantum computers may render popular encryption techniques such as RSA, a technique which is based on the notion that a computer cannot efficiently factor a 2,048-bit integer, or a number with 617 digits, obsolete.
Quantum computing’s compromising of popular encryption techniques could have a significant effect on Australia's cybersecurity environment. Even now, attackers with access to quantum technology may be able to decipher sensitive data that is currently thought to be ‘secure’. This issue affects both current and future communications, as well as previously encrypted material. Specifically, encrypted data captured and held by malicious parties could be decrypted retrospectively if powerful enough quantum computers become accessible. This vulnerability, termed as "harvest now, decrypt later," poses a serious threat to long-term data secrecy and national security.
Australian cybersecurity experts are calling for the quick and broad use of post-quantum cryptography (PQC) to respond to the aforementioned recent advances in quantum computing capabilities. PQC encompasses methods of encryption that are thought to be safe from both conventional and quantum computers. In addition to offering advice to Australian organisations, the Australian Cyber Security Centre (ACSC) has been actively tracking global initiatives to standardise PQC algorithms.
Although this threat to encryption poses a risk to all industries, Australian businesses have a tendency to respond slowly to cyberattacks, which raises questions about their preparedness for the quantum era. Obstacles including expenses and insufficient knowledge pose noteworthy difficulties. A collaborative approach is required to solve this, underpinned by consistent government efforts to provide support and increase awareness.
The development of quantum-resistant capabilities should be led by top cybersecurity companies and progressively incorporated into government and commercial organisations. Essential steps include evaluating vulnerabilities, giving long-term data protection the highest priority, creating crypto-agile systems, and considering the proactive implementation of post-quantum cryptography for extremely sensitive data. By undertaking these measures, Australian businesses can better prepare for both the advantages and difficulties presented by the impending quantum computing revolution and guarantee robust information security against emerging quantum threats.
For Australia, the shift to quantum-resistant cryptography poses difficulties. According to the CSIRO, in comparison to existing techniques many PQC algorithms have higher computing overhead or call for bigger key sizes. This might require major improvements to the nation's current hardware and software infrastructure.
While these domestic challenges are substantial, Australia must also address the global ramifications of this technological transition. Given Australia's place in the global digital economy, concerted efforts with foreign partners are essential to securing the broad acceptance of quantum-resistant standards. Therefore, the Australian government is attempting to establish Australia as a pioneer in the development of quantum technologies and cybersecurity through programs like the National Quantum Strategy.
Still, Australia must increase such international engagement. For example, research collaborations with quantum technology leaders such as the United Kingdom and Canada could speed up innovation and information sharing. Australia additionally needs to become more involved in international forums to support the development and adoption of quantum-resistant cryptography standards. Increased diplomatic engagement is required to reach an agreement on the ethical application and governance of quantum technologies. Finally, expanding international exchange programs for quantum researchers and cybersecurity experts would help to build a worldwide talent pool capable of tackling quantum-related challenges.
Though it may take years until large-scale quantum computers are completely operational, Australian enterprises need to take immediate action. Organisations cannot afford to wait due to the long-term significance of much of the encrypted data currently in use, as well as the complexity of cryptographic migrations. The message is clear: our cybersecurity measures need to adapt to keep up with the pace of change. Australia's digital security in the future will rely on its capacity to foresee and prepare for the quantum computing paradigm.
Rani Ravinthran is the Cyber, Tech and Space Fellow for Young Australians in International Affairs. She is an ambitious law and commerce student with a keen interest in the intersection of legal practice and emerging technologies. Currently in her final year of Bachelor of Commerce/ Bachelor of Laws at Macquarie University, Rani has gained valuable experience in the technology, finance and litigation fields, positioning her well for future work in cyber law and space regulations.
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