30 March 2026
Google is sounding the alarm, via a blog post, about the potential threat that quantum computers pose to online security and is pressing for a rapid transition to post-quantum cryptography.
Although current quantum computers are not capable of cracking encryption on a large scale, Google said it expects this capability to emerge in the future. The company also warned that data collected today may later become vulnerable to decryption. It has establishing 2029 as the target date for its switch to post-quantum cryptography and is encouraging other companies to follow suit.
The tech giant also argued that action is needed before a sufficiently powerful quantum computer appears on the market that is capable of breaking current encryption methods. Google recognises its responsibility as a pioneer in both quantum computing and post-quantum cryptography to set an ambitious timeline and spur the entire sector into action.
This concern stems from the immense computing power that quantum computers promise. While this technology offers potential for advances in fields such as drug development, it also poses a substantial risk to existing encryption methods, which are crucial for maintaining confidentiality and security on the Internet.
The threat is further heightened by the possibility of “store now, decrypt later” attacks, in which malicious actors collect encrypted data today with the intention of decrypting it once quantum computers become powerful enough.
Governments around the world recognise the seriousness of this situation and are urging companies to prepare for the transition to post-quantum cryptography. Several countries have already published strategies and guidelines outlining the risks and emphasising the need for action.
At the same time, the cryptographic community is actively working on the development of new encryption methods that are resistant to quantum attacks. In addition to these efforts, there is a global race under way to build a secure quantum network infrastructure, with China emerging as one of the main contenders. The European Commission has set itself the goal of establishing a pan-European operational quantum communication infrastructure by 2027.
Business AM
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