Quantum computing is no longer a distant concept. It is rapidly approaching practical reality. While these advances promise remarkable computational power, they also pose significant risks to current cryptographic systems. Security teams must act now to prepare, rather than waiting until quantum computers can easily break existing encryption.
Understanding the Quantum Risk
The primary concern is “harvest now, decrypt later.” Cybercriminals can capture encrypted data today and store it until quantum computers are capable of decrypting it. Industries handling sensitive, long-term information, such as finance, healthcare, government, and critical infrastructure, are particularly vulnerable. Data that must remain confidential for decades is at risk unless organisations proactively adopt quantum-resilient strategies.
Conduct a Cryptography Audit
The first practical step for security teams is to understand where cryptography is used across the organisation. This involves conducting a comprehensive cryptographic inventory, including VPNs, databases, backups, internal applications, and supplier connections. Many systems were designed years ago and may contain encryption that is now vulnerable. Mapping these dependencies early ensures that no weak points are overlooked.
Classify and Prioritise Sensitive Data
Not all data requires the same level of protection over time. Security teams should classify information based on how long it needs to remain confidential, whether ten, twenty, or fifty years. Prioritising the most sensitive data for early migration to quantum-safe cryptography reduces long-term exposure and focuses resources where they are most needed.
Stay Aligned with Emerging Standards
Post-quantum cryptography is advancing quickly. Bodies such as NIST are finalising standards for quantum-resistant algorithms. Collaborating with trusted experts, like PQShield, helps organisations implement these new algorithms securely and plan for a smooth migration. Keeping up to date with standards ensures that your encryption strategy remains effective as quantum computing evolves.
Testing and Hybrid Models
Before rolling out post-quantum solutions organisation-wide, teams should test algorithms in controlled environments. This helps assess performance, compatibility, and operational impact. Hybrid models, where classical and quantum-resistant cryptography operate together, are likely to become the practical first step in migration, ensuring continuity while strengthening security.
Vendor and Supply Chain Readiness
Many organisations rely on third-party platforms, cloud services, and devices that incorporate built-in encryption. Security teams should engage with suppliers to understand their quantum readiness plans. This prevents dependency-related gaps and ensures that the broader ecosystem is prepared for the transition.
Awareness and Communication
Quantum security is not solely a technical issue. Executives, risk managers, and IT teams must share a common understanding of the threat. Treating it as a niche technical concern risks delays and misaligned priorities. Instead, frame quantum readiness as a long-term organisational initiative requiring planning, coordination, and investment.
Conclusion
The quantum threat is real but manageable with proactive planning. By auditing cryptography, prioritising sensitive data, following emerging standards, testing hybrid solutions, and engaging with suppliers, security teams can prepare their organisations for a future where quantum computing is part of everyday reality rather than a distant milestone. Early action today ensures that sensitive data remains secure for decades to come.
