Key Takeaways

  • Shor's Algorithm: A theoretical quantum algorithm that can factor large prime numbers in seconds. Since RSA encryption relies on factoring being hard, Shor's Algorithm breaks RSA.
  • Store Now, Decrypt Later: Intelligence agencies are harvesting encrypted data TODAY. They can't read it yet. They are storing it in massive data centers to decrypt it in 10 years when quantum computers arrive.
  • PQC (Post-Quantum Cryptography): NIST has already selected new algorithms (like CRYSTALS-Kyber) that are resistant to quantum attacks. We must upgrade the entire internet to use them.

A classical computer works with Bits (0 or 1). A Quantum computer works with Qubits (0 and 1 simultaneously). This allows parallel processing on a scale the human mind can barely comprehend.

The Threat

Current encryption (RSA, Elliptic Curve) protects your bank account, your WhatsApp messages, and national secrets. If a powerful Quantum Computer (4000+ stable Qubits) is built, all these secrets become public.

Y2Q (Year 2 Quantum)

Like Y2K, but scarier. Experts predict "Q-Day" will happen between 2030 and 2035. Any system not upgraded by then will be defenseless.

The Solution: Lattice-Based Cryptography

The new algorithms rely on math problems involving multi-dimensional geometric structures (Lattices). Even a quantum computer struggles to find the closest point in a 500-dimensional lattice.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Does this break Bitcoin?
Yes. Bitcoin addresses use Elliptic Curve Cryptography. A quantum computer could derive the Private Key from the Public Key. Bitcoin will need a "Soft Fork" to upgrade to PQC addresses before this happens.
Will my password change?
No. Symmetric encryption (AES-256) is actually safe. Quantum computers only weaken it slightly (Grover's Algorithm), so we just need to double the key length (use AES-512).

AI is not just for chat. It's for hacking.
Read AI Security