Quantum computing is one of the most exciting breakthroughs in modern science—but it also poses one of the biggest threats to the future of cybersecurity. You may have heard about quantum computers in the news, but here’s something most headlines don’t tell you: quantum computing could one day soon break the security that protects your bank account, email, and your private messages. Let’s look at what quantum computing is, why it matters for cybersecurity, how it could break today’s encryption, and what you can do right now to protect yourself.
What Is a Quantum Computer or Quantum Computing?
Quantum computers don’t work like the computers we use every day. Today’s computers — whether it’s your phone, laptop, or smartwatch — use what are called bits to process information. A bit is either a 1 or a 0. It’s like a light switch that can be on or off. Quantum computers use something different called qubits. Thanks to the strange rules of quantum physics, a qubit can be a 1, a 0, or both at the same time. That might sound impossible, but it allows quantum computers to try out many solutions at once, processing massive amounts of data and solving complex problems millions of times faster than today’s best supercomputers.
That’s great for fields like artificial superintelligence and scientific research—but when it comes to digital security, it’s a game-changer in the worst way.
What Makes Quantum Computing a Cybersecurity Threat?
Almost everything we do online today is protected by digital locks, or what experts call encryption. Encryption scrambles information so that only the right person with the right “key” can unlock it.
Encryption protects your:
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Online banking
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Emails and text messages
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Credit card numbers
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Cloud files and photos
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Passwords stored by websites
These digital locks are strong because they take regular computers hundreds or even thousands of years to break. But a powerful quantum computer could break them in minutes.
Imagine trying to open a combination lock by testing every possible number. A regular computer would try them one by one. A quantum computer could try all combinations at once—making it millions of times faster. That means the things we consider private today—your finances, your identity, your communications—could be at risk in the future.
Let’s look at an example. Right now, longer passwords take too much time to guess, even for the fastest computers. But with a quantum computer?
| Password Length | Traditional Computer (Estimated Time) | Quantum Computer (Estimated Time) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8 characters | ~5 minutes | Seconds | |
| 10 characters | ~1 week | Less than 1 minute | |
| 12 characters | ~300 years | Hours | |
| 16 characters | Trillions of years | Days |
Right now, using a long, strong password protects you. But in the future, quantum computers may reduce that protection drastically—unless we update our digital locks.
How Long Before Quantum Computing is a Threat?
Quantum computing is experiencing rapid growth, with the global market projected to grow from around $1.8 billion this year to $7.5 billion in the next five years. That’s an annual growth rate of 36%! The surge is being driven by significant advancements in the technology, as well as large investments from industries it is expected to revolutionize, such as cryptography, pharmaceuticals, and logistics. These computers enable solutions to problems that are impossible for classic computers. Despite the early stage of commercial deployment, the industry’s momentum signals a transformative decade ahead for quantum technology.
What Cybersecurity Risks Quantum Computing Creates
Here are a few real-world examples of how quantum computing could affect you in your everyday life:
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Your Passwords: Hackers could use quantum computers to unlock password databases and access your accounts.
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Private Messages and Emails: Encrypted messages hackers are downloading today but can’t read can be decrypted when they have access to quantum computers, letting them read private conversations you thought were safe.
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Fake Websites: The security certificates that show a website is safe (the padlock icon) could be faked, tricking you into entering your data on a dangerous site.
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Stolen Identities: Digital keys used in authentication (like logging into an account without a password) could be forged, allowing criminals to impersonate you.
What you can do to Prepare for the Quantum Threat
You don’t need to be a cybersecurity expert to prepare. Here are simple steps you can take today:
Use Strong, Long Passwords
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Increase your password length to at least 14 characters.
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Use a password manager to help create and remember them.
Turn On Multi-Factor or Two-Factor Authentication (MFA or 2FA)
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This adds a layer of protection by sending a code to your phone or app when you log in, so even if your password is cracked, something else is needed to get into your accounts.
Keep Your Devices Updated
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Many software and hardware manufacturers are trying to stay ahead of quantum computing, and firmware and software updates often include better security. These updates will be key to getting future quantum-resistant protection, so it’s good to get in the habit of regularly checking for updates now.
Don’t Reuse Passwords
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That way, if one of your passwords is compromised, hackers won’t be able to get into your other accounts.
Stay Informed
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This type of technology is coming quickly, so follow trusted news sources so you’ll know when companies start using quantum-safe encryption (also called post-quantum security).
Be Ready for Quantum Computing
Quantum computers aren’t necessarily a threat today, but they are coming. Most of us have seen how quickly Artificial Intelligence has taken off and how AI has been used by cyber attackers. So, when quantum computing does arrive, it’s good to be prepared to keep your digital life secure. The good news is that Cybersecurity experts and major tech companies are already working on quantum-proof solutions. In the meantime, you can protect yourself by using strong passwords, enabling two-factor authentication, and staying informed. Cybersecurity constantly evolves, so taking these small steps today can make a big difference tomorrow.