Malicious actors are collecting encrypted data, anticipating future quantum computing breakthroughs to decrypt it. To counter this, organisations are urged to adopt quantum-safe encryption. Toshiba’s Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) is a quantum-secure method of data transmission that provides ultra-secure encryption keys.
In 2022, JPMorgan Chase, Toshiba, and Ciena demonstrated the first QKD network. Toshiba Group and KT also launched QKD pilot projects in South Korea. EY and HSBC have joined the Quantum-Secured Metro Network, the world’s first commercial trial for a QKD network. In Southeast Asia, Toshiba and SpeQtral launched a Quantum Networks EXperience Centre in Singapore.
The Threat of Quantum Computing to Data Security
Malicious individuals are already gathering encrypted data, with the expectation that future advancements in quantum computing will allow them to decrypt this information. This strategy, referred to as “harvest now, decrypt later,” is particularly prevalent in sectors such as banking and government departments, which often hold valuable, long-lasting data. To counteract this, it is crucial for organisations to take a proactive approach and ensure their networks are safeguarded by quantum-safe encryption well in advance.
Quantum Secure Networks: A Solution
Quantum secure networks are currently the only known method to protect data from interception and decryption, even by quantum computers. Implementing these networks is in line with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal of creating reliable, sustainable, and resilient infrastructure.
Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) Technology
Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) is a quantum-secure method of data transmission that distributes ultra-secure encryption keys, making networks resilient against quantum threats. Toshiba’s QKD technology, which has been developed over two decades, can be deployed over existing fibre networks, making it a mature and globally recognised solution.
Real-World Applications and Trials of QKD
In 2022, JPMorgan Chase, Toshiba, and Ciena collaborated to demonstrate the viability of the first Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) network, ensuring security for mission-critical blockchain applications. Toshiba Group and KT also joined forces for Quantum Key Distribution pilot projects in South Korea. In April 2022, EY became the first commercial customer for the Quantum-Secured Metro Network (QSMN), the world’s first commercial trial for a QKD network built using Toshiba QKD hardware and key management software across BT’s fibre network. In July 2023, HSBC became the first bank to join the UK’s pioneering commercial quantum secure metro network.
Quantum Networks in Southeast Asia
In Southeast Asia, Toshiba launched a Quantum Networks EXperience Centre (QNEX) in Singapore, operated by its partner SpeQtral Pte. Ltd. (SpeQtral). This centre showcases quantum key distribution (QKD) technology and its practical applications in securing critical infrastructure and sensitive data. A joint partnership between SpeQtral and SPTel recently submitted a proposal to the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) to build a National Quantum-Safe Network Plus (NQSN+) in Singapore.
By adopting quantum-secure methods, financial institutions can protect sensitive data, secure customer trust, and prepare for the quantum era. Toshiba is dedicated to developing solutions that protect the security of people and organisations from emerging threats.
“Malicious actors have already begun collecting encrypted data, anticipating a future breakthrough in quantum computing that would enable them to decrypt it. These attacks, known as “harvest now, decrypt later,” target industries like banks and government departments, taking advantage of the slow aging of important data. To address this, organizations must be proactive and ensure their networks are protected by quantum-safe encryption well in advance.”
“Quantum secure networks are the only solution to protect data from interception and decryption, even by quantum computers. Adopting these networks aligns with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal of developing reliable, sustainable, and resilient infrastructure.”
“Toshiba’s Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) is an example of a quantum-secure method of data transmission that distributes ultra-secure encryption keys, making networks resilient against quantum threats. Toshiba’s QKD technology has been developed over two decades and can be deployed over existing fiber networks, making it a mature and world-leading solution.”
“By adopting quantum-secure methods, financial institutions can protect sensitive data, secure customer trust, and prepare for the quantum era. Toshiba is committed to developing solutions that protect the security of people and organizations from emerging threats.”
Quick Summary
Anticipating future breakthroughs in quantum computing, malicious actors are already collecting encrypted data for future decryption, necessitating the adoption of quantum-safe encryption to protect sensitive information. Quantum secure networks, such as Toshiba’s Quantum Key Distribution (QKD), offer a solution by distributing ultra-secure encryption keys, making networks resilient against quantum threats.
- Cybercriminals are collecting encrypted data, anticipating future quantum computing breakthroughs that could decrypt it. This strategy, known as “harvest now, decrypt later,” targets sectors like banking and government.
- Quantum secure networks are the only known solution to protect data from such threats. These networks align with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal of developing reliable and resilient infrastructure.
- Toshiba’s Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) is a quantum-secure method of data transmission that distributes ultra-secure encryption keys, making networks resilient against quantum threats.
- In 2022, JPMorgan Chase, Toshiba, and Ciena demonstrated the viability of the first QKD network. Toshiba Group and KT also initiated QKD pilot projects in South Korea. EY became the first commercial customer for the Quantum-Secured Metro Network (QSMN), a commercial trial for QKD network using Toshiba QKD hardware and key management software across BT’s fibre network. In 2023, HSBC became the first bank to join the UK’s commercial quantum secure metro network.
- In Southeast Asia, Toshiba and its partner SpeQtral launched a Quantum Networks EXperience Centre (QNEX) in Singapore to demonstrate QKD technology. SpeQtral and SPTel proposed to build a National Quantum-Safe Network Plus (NQSN+) in Singapore.
- By adopting quantum-secure methods, financial institutions can protect sensitive data and prepare for the quantum era.
Read More.
