Cybercriminals could be getting favor from quantum computing and AI
In today’s connected world, everyone benefits from advanced cyberdefense programs. At an individual level, a cybersecurity attack can result in everything from identity theft, to extortion attempts, to the loss of important data like family photos. Everyone relies on critical infrastructure like power plants, hospitals, and financial service companies. Securing these and other organizations is essential to keeping our society functioning.
Quantum computing is a groundbreaking technology that uses the principles of quantum mechanics to process information in a way that traditional computers cannot. Instead of using bits, which represent either a 0 or a 1, quantum computers use quantum bits or “qubits.” These qubits can exist in multiple states at once, thanks to a phenomenon known as “superposition,” allowing quantum computers to solve certain complex problems much faster than conventional computers.
In the 1990s, computer scientists Peter Shor and Lov Grover made significant breakthroughs in quantum algorithms, setting the stage for practical quantum computing. As quantum computing promises to solve complex problems using qubits, cybersecurity professionals are worried it could outpace current encryption methods. Combining AI and quantum computing creates new vulnerabilities for organizations to address. AI has already facilitated complex cyberattacks, like AI-driven phishing schemes and deepfakes.
With quantum computing, these threats will only grow more sophisticated as attackers find new ways to exploit systems’ weaknesses. The 2024 Microsoft Data Security Index revealed that AI-related security incidents nearly doubled in 2024. In a notable 2024 incident, an employee, deceived by deepfake technology, reportedly transferred US$25 million to fraudsters posing as his company’s CFO.
Experts say traditional cybersecurity methods can’t keep up with evolving threats, meaning static security configurations are no longer effective, a problem compounded by quantum computing’s processing speed. Security teams should focus on building resilience by adopting practices that anticipate future threats. This includes continuously updating encryption protocols, investing in new security technologies, and ensuring that staff are trained to handle evolving threats.
To prepare for escalating cybersecurity threats, organizations should adopt proactive measures, says Chaim Mazal, Gigamon’s Chief Security Officer and a Forbes Council Member. According to Mazal, a key approach to protecting networks in this new era is implementing a zero-trust framework, which assumes that no user, device, or system can be inherently trusted and manages network access in real time, minimizing the chance of unauthorized access.
Stronger public-private collaboration is needed to address sophisticated threats, especially those posed by quantum computing and AI. While the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) advocates for modern tactics, industry-wide cooperation is crucial to enhance resilience. The shift to a more adaptive cybersecurity model is about more than just technology—it’s a change in mindset.
Reference: Specialists warn new technology is making cybercriminals’ lives easier
