Mathematician Peter Shor created the Shor Algorithm in 1994, an algorithm that can crack codes that are used by banks, e-commerce platforms, and intelligence agencies, but the code can only run on quantum computers. Years later, quantum computers still have not been developed enough to task them with breaking public-key encryption. However, a future in which quantum computers are easily accessible and where sensitive information is accessible to anyone with a quantum computer and some hacking skills.
Dr. Deborah Frincke, director of research for the NSA, says that rapid advances in quantum technology makes it essential for the government to secure databases and advance digital security methods. The NSA has previously announced that they had been researching encryption schemes that withstand quantum computer attacks. While researchers continue to develop quantum computing-proof algorithms, Frincke warns cryptographers not to rush and create additional risks. As the development of quantum computers becomes closer to a reality, entirely new digital threats could be looming in the future.
Read More: Don’t Rush Quantum-Proof Encryption, Warns NSA Research Director
