Sharon Dolmans, associate professor at the Department of Industrial Engineering and Innovation Sciences at the Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e), is leading the interdisciplinary FIQCS project to assess and mitigate the future threat of quantum-enabled decryption of currently encrypted data. Funded by NWO and the Dutch Ministries of Defense and Economic Affairs, the consortium—including TNO and collaborating companies—is investigating the societal implications of quantum technology, particularly the “harvest now, decrypt later” phenomenon. This work focuses on the application of quantum key distribution (QKD) to establish ultra-secure communication channels, ensuring data confidentiality against future quantum computer attacks and fostering proactive societal preparedness.
The Threat of Quantum Computing to Current Encryption
Current encryption standards, like RSA and ECC, rely on the mathematical difficulty of factoring large numbers or solving elliptic curve problems. These are computationally intensive for classical computers, ensuring data security. However, quantum computers, leveraging principles of superposition and entanglement, utilize Shor’s algorithm. This algorithm can factor large numbers exponentially faster – turning what would take billions of years for a classical computer into mere seconds for a sufficiently powerful quantum machine. This poses a critical threat to virtually all currently encrypted data.
A particularly alarming scenario is “harvest now, decrypt later.” Hackers are actively collecting encrypted data today, anticipating future access via quantum computers. While unable to decrypt it currently, this stolen data will become vulnerable once quantum computing reaches sufficient scale. The Netherlands, and many other nations, are recognizing this threat, with projects like FIQCS investigating solutions. This highlights the urgency of transitioning to quantum-resistant cryptographic methods before quantum computers mature.
Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) offers a potential solution. Unlike traditional encryption, QKD uses the principles of quantum mechanics to securely distribute encryption keys. Any attempt to intercept the key alters it, immediately alerting the communicating parties. While not a complete solution – QKD requires specialized hardware and has range limitations – it’s a crucial technology being investigated alongside post-quantum cryptography (new mathematical algorithms resistant to quantum attacks) to ensure future data security.
FIQCS Project: Advancing Quantum Security & Collaboration
The FIQCS project, led by Sharon Dolmans at TU/e, addresses the looming threat of quantum computers breaking current encryption standards. This initiative, funded by NWO and Dutch Ministries, isn’t just about building new technology; it’s about proactive security. The core concern is “harvest now, decrypt later” attacks – where encrypted data is intercepted today with the intent to decrypt it once sufficiently powerful quantum computers become available. FIQCS seeks to understand and mitigate this risk across sectors like defense, finance, and healthcare.
A key technology under investigation within FIQCS is Quantum Key Distribution (QKD). Unlike traditional encryption, QKD uses the principles of quantum mechanics to transmit encryption keys – any attempt to intercept the key alters it, immediately alerting communicating parties. The project focuses on applying this technology responsibly, identifying where QKD can offer immediate benefits and bridging the gap between technical development and societal needs. Collaboration with the Ministry of Defense is central to ensuring future-proofed communication security.
Beyond the technical aspects, FIQCS emphasizes education and knowledge sharing. Workshops, thesis research, and a dedicated elective course (“Introduction to Quantum Technologies”) aim to raise awareness about quantum security amongst both technical experts and broader stakeholders. Students are challenged to consider not only how the technology works, but also its complex social impact – highlighting that steering this innovation responsibly is just as crucial as advancing the technology itself.
Societal Impact & Responsible Implementation of QKD
The looming threat of quantum computers necessitates proactive security measures, particularly against the “harvest now, decrypt later” attack. Hackers are already intercepting encrypted data – government files, financial records – anticipating future quantum decryption capabilities. While current encryption like RSA-2048, relying on factoring large numbers, will be vulnerable, Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) offers a solution. QKD utilizes the laws of quantum mechanics to transmit encryption keys; any attempt to intercept the key alters it, immediately alerting communicating parties – ensuring data confidentiality even against quantum attacks.
Research, like that conducted by the FIQCS project at TU/e, isn’t solely focused on building QKD technology, but critically on responsible implementation. This involves identifying where QKD offers the greatest immediate impact – prioritizing sectors like defense and finance – and crucially, addressing broader societal questions. How can we balance enhanced security with continued access to information? Workshops and collaborative efforts between technical experts and stakeholders are essential for navigating this complex landscape and aligning innovation with social safety.
Education plays a vital role in preparing for a post-quantum world. Courses like “Introduction to Quantum Technologies” aren’t just teaching the how of QKD, but also its potential societal consequences. Researchers note a near 50/50 split among students regarding the difficulty of advancing the technology versus understanding and steering its social impact. This highlights that building secure systems isn’t enough; a comprehensive understanding of ethical implications and responsible deployment is equally crucial for a safe future.
