IBM Zurich’s Curioni Warns Quantum Computers Could Break Encryption by Decade’s End

Dr. Alessandro Curioni, director of IBM Research at Zurich, has warned that sufficiently powerful quantum computers, potentially before the end of the decade, could breach current cryptographic technology, exposing sensitive data including healthcare and financial information, and enabling digital forgery. This event, termed ‘Q-Day’, signifies the moment quantum computers can crack cryptographic keys – complex codes securing data access – with implications for personal banking, financial systems, and national security. Significant investment in quantum computing is currently concentrated in the United States and China, with the potential for the first cryptographically-capable quantum computer originating from any nation investing sufficiently in its development.

Dr. Alessandro Curioni, director of IBM Research at Zurich, explained that quantum computers utilise subatomic particles for calculations, enabling them to perform tasks at speeds exceeding those of traditional computers. He warned that once quantum computers attain sufficient power, they will be capable of breaking current cryptographic technology, potentially exposing sensitive data – including healthcare and financial information – and facilitating the forgery of digital signatures on contracts. This forthcoming event, referred to as ‘Q-Day’, represents the point at which quantum computers can crack cryptographic keys – complex codes used to secure data and restrict access to authorised users – with significant consequences for personal banking information, financial systems, and national security.

Curioni emphasised that a quantum computing machine will likely be powerful enough to break standard cryptographic technology currently in use before the end of the decade. The development of the first powerful quantum computer is characterised by intense competition, with substantial investments originating from nations globally. He noted that the United States and China are demonstrating exponential investment in this field, with the majority of developments presently occurring within their borders.

Curioni stated that the first powerful quantum computer capable of cracking cryptographic technology could originate from any nation investing sufficiently in its development, highlighting the potential for a quantum cryptography threat to emerge from multiple sources.