Head of IBM Research, Arvind Krishna, attended a panel discussion in San Francisco last week and shared his thoughts about quantum computing and current ancryption methods. Quantum computing, a concept developed since 1980s, has taken massive leaps forward during the past couple of years, as technologies have advanced. Quantum computing isn't a "holy grail" for all kinds of computer solutions, but it is a technology that is extremely powerful in handling massive, large numbers. The problem? All modern encryption techniques are based on large numbers, namely, large prime numbers. According to Mr. Krishna, in just five years' time, the quantum computers will be able to break even the strongest, "military-grade" encryptions instantly. This includes the "most secure" versions of AES and more.
Now, luckily, there seems to be a solution. So-called Lattice-based cryptography already exists and is considered to be "quantum-computing- safe". Thus, Mr. Krishna suggests that "if you want to keep your data secret ten years from now, you should change your encryption technology".
