A looming event known as Q-Day threatens to disrupt the security of data across the internet. On this day, a quantum computer will be powerful enough to run an algorithm created in 1994 by computer scientist Peter Shor, capable of breaking the encryption that currently protects online information.

In the background, malicious actors are already collecting encrypted emails. Although this data is currently indecipherable, they are patiently waiting for Q-Day to decrypt it. "Right now encryption is protecting this data," said Sushmita Ruj, associate professor at the University of New South Wales' Institute for Cybersecurity. "But what if a computer comes in later that decrypts everything? It becomes a real catastrophe."

Public-key encryption, which secures much of the internet's data, relies on the difficulty of factoring enormous numbers. Henry Everitt, a physicist and chief scientist with the United States Army, explained, "Public-key encryption works because the numbers are enormous." This method is also used by organizations like the National Security Agency (NSA) to keep classified information secure.

IBM researchers have previously conducted experiments related to factoring, such as in 2001, demonstrating early quantum computing capabilities. Meanwhile, Microsoft recently announced it is moving its deadline for preparing against quantum threats to 2029.

Experts warn that the arrival of Q-Day could bring financial markets and electronic commerce to a grinding halt due to compromised security.

Sources