The quantum threat: an invisible but imminent challenge
In the digital age, cryptography serves as the cornerstone of secure communication, data confidentiality and trusted governance. However, this foundation is now under threat from the advent of quantum computing. Unlike traditional security risks, the quantum threat doesn’t break systems today, it compromises the long-term confidentiality of data by enabling “store-now, decrypt-later” attacks. Sensitive state information encrypted today could be exposed tomorrow if a sufficiently powerful quantum computer becomes operational.
Public key infrastructures (PKIs), digital identities, government interoperability platforms, and secure messaging systems are all built on cryptographic algorithms that quantum computers could potentially break. As early as 2040, or even sooner, the threat may materialise and with it, the security architecture of modern e-governance could be compromised.
The exact date for when the first cryptographic key will be broken is not yet known. Every time you read about a real engineering breakthrough in quantum computing, the date may become closer. But beware of the hype – not all press releases are about real breakthroughs!
Engineering trust for a post-quantum world
Since 2017, Cybernetica has been at the forefront of research and innovation in post-quantum cryptography (PQC). We understand that the transition to a quantum-safe digital environment is not merely a technical upgrade – it is a strategic imperative for digital sovereignty and national resilience.
How we solve the problem
Cybernetica’s post-quantum strategy is based on three key pillars:
- Research-driven development: Our Information Security Research Institute actively publishes and contributes to global PQC research, focusing on digital identity, internet voting, and secure interoperability.
- Practical implementation: We have developed post-quantum engineering platforms that have already been used to implement quantum-safe VPNs, digital identity and Internet voting systems.
- Guided transition services: Cybernetica supports public institutions in identifying cryptographic vulnerabilities, categorising infrastructure, and planning phased migration strategies that minimise risk and disruption.
Our products UXP and SplitKey already feature PQC in their product roadmaps, ensuring that our clients are protected from future threats today.
Crypto-agility and future-proof e-governance
We envision a future where public-sector systems are not only quantum-safe, but cryptographically agile – able to adopt new cryptographic standards as they evolve. Cybernetica sees this transition as an opportunity for governments to modernise legacy systems, standardise security practices, and include resilience at every level of digital governance.
We believe that governments must lead by example, mandating cryptographic agility in procurement, legislation, and policy.
Next steps for political and government leaders
The shift to quantum-safe cryptography will not happen overnight, however, decisions made today will determine the confidentiality of state data decades from now. Here’s how leaders can take meaningful action:
- Initiate cryptography inventory: Assess where and how cryptography is used in national IT infrastructure.
- Engage with trusted experts: Collaborate with post-quantum leaders like Cybernetica to evaluate risks and draft strategic roadmaps.
- Demand crypto-agile solutions: Ensure that new public-sector procurements specify crypto-agility and PQC readiness.
- Promote international alignment: Encourage cross-border collaboration and adherence to emerging standards from NIST, ISO, and ETSI.
- Fund post-quantum modernisation: Allocate resources to upgrade platforms critical to national security, such as PKIs, digital identity systems, and government cloud services.
Quantum computing will transform industries and unless we act now, it may erode digital trust in public institutions. Cybernetica invites government officials, policymakers, and political stakeholders to partner with us in preparing for this future. We are ready to help you plan, pilot, and implement quantum-safe systems that uphold the security, transparency, and efficiency your citizens depend on.
For a more technical and in-depth overview of our vision for PQC e-governance, have a look at our white paper.
Don’t hesitate to contact us to find out more!