Quantum computers risk online security ‘catastrophe’

Quantum computing could lead to “catastrophic” breaches of online security if protective measures are not introduced, or if the technology is first developed by criminal organisations, according to a technology expert at University College Cork.

The technology is so advanced that quantum computers will be capable of breaking the encryption systems, which protect almost all private communications online, including virtually all financial transactions.

No existing online security system would be able to withstand an attack from one.