Quantum Shift: How Cybersecurity Must Evolve Now

Quantum computing is advancing rapidly—and with it, the potential to break today’s most widely used encryption standards. In this episode of Cyberside Chats, Sherri and Matt cut through the hype to explore the real-world cybersecurity implications of quantum technology. From the looming threat to encryption to the emerging field of post-quantum cryptography, our experts will explain what security pros and IT teams need to know now. You'll walk away with a clear understanding of the risks, timelines, and concrete steps your organization can take today to stay ahead of the curve. 

 

Takeaways & How to Prepare for Quantum Computing: 

1. Map Your Crypto Use Today 
   Inventory where you use RSA, ECC, and digital signatures across your organization. This is the first step toward identifying high-risk systems and planning your migration strategy. 

1. Ask Vendors the Right Questions 
   Engage vendors now about their crypto agility and post-quantum readiness. Don’t wait for them to tell you—ask what they're doing to prepare and when they'll support PQC standards. 

1. Protect Long-Term Confidential Data 
   Identify and secure data that must stay private for 10+ years—think HR records, contracts, financials, and customer data. Make sure it’s encrypted using symmetric methods or stored on platforms that can adopt PQC. 

1. Track PQC Standards and Test Early 
   Keep up with NIST's progress and consider pilot testing PQC tools in non-production environments. Testing now reduces surprises later when standards are finalized. 

1. Start Using Hybrid Crypto Approaches 
   Hybrid protocols combine classical and quantum-safe algorithms. They provide an easy starting point to future-proof encryption while retaining backward compatibility. 

References: 

“NIST Releases First 3 Finalized Post-Quantum Encryption Standards” 

https://www.nist.gov/news-events/news/2024/08/nist-releases-first-3-finalized-post-quantum-encryption-standards 

“You need to prepare for post-quantum cryptography now. Here’s why” 

https://www.scworld.com/resource/you-need-to-prepare-for-post-quantum-cryptography-now-heres-why 

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