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Cybersecurity and Quantum Computing

Cybersecurity and Quantum Computing

Speaker: Salvador Elias Venegas-Andraca – Mexico City, Mexico
Topic(s): Security and Privacy

Abstract

Quantum technology is a multidisciplinary field of science and engineering in which physics, mathematics, computer science, and engineering meet with the goal of understanding how quantum physics (that is, the physics of the tremendously small, the size of atoms and subatomic particles) can be used to substantially increase and enhance our information processing capacity, that is, of computation and data communication. Examples of quantum technology are quantum cryptography, quantum computers, and quantum sensors.

The properties of quantum technology represent both a major challenge and an exceptional opportunity for cybersecurity, for the following reasons:

a) Some existing cryptographic algorithms (for example, public key cryptographic protocols) are known to be vulnerable to the attack of robust quantum computers running Shor's algorithm. Published roadmaps of quantum computer hardware show that within a decade, available quantum computers will be large and robust enough to accomplish this task, that is, to break some (very important) cryptographic methods.

b) This scenario of potential vulnerability has been the driving force behind the development of Post-Quantum Cryptography, that is, the analysis, design, and standardization of cryptography protocols resistant to quantum computer attacks running Shor's algorithm.

c) Quantum science and technology is usually a give-and-take arena: while it makes some existing technology vulnerable, it also gives humankind novel methods to enhance the security of our data. This is indeed the case of Quantum Key Distribution: the use of quantum systems for the creation of encryption keys that provides private key cryptography with enhanced levels of security.

In this lecture I will present the mathematical, physical, and computational foundations of the intersection between quantum technology and cybersecurity. Moreover, I will address the three vulnerability and development scenarios described above and I will end with a presentation of the advances that the World Economic Forum, NIST and other international organizations have made in terms of (post)-quantum cybersecurity.

This talk can be tailored to suit the expected audience, i.e. it can focus on the scientific, mathematical and engineering aspects of quantum technology and cybersecurity (suitable for an audience mainly composed by engineers and scientists) or, alternatively, emphasis can be placed on functional concepts of quantum technology and its potential role in current and future cybersecurity systems and its corresponding economic impact (suitable for audiences with diverse academic backgrounds and professional interests).

About this Lecture

Number of Slides: 60 or 80
Duration: 60 or 90 minutes
Languages Available: English, Spanish
Last Updated:

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