Agentic AI,
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Strong Data Foundations Give AI Leaders an Edge in Quantum Security
In today’s rapidly evolving technological landscape, many chief information officers (CIOs) find themselves navigating two concurrent transformations: the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and the preparation for impending threats posed by quantum computing. As AI projects proliferate, these executives face the critical challenge of securing their organizations while also anticipating potential disruptions from quantum advancement.
Recent findings from a study conducted by Thales reveal that organizations leading the charge in AI security are also considerably better equipped to handle the challenges posed by quantum technologies. This research underscores the common foundations that underpin both AI implementation and strategies for quantum readiness—namely data visibility, effective governance, robust encryption practices, and adaptable infrastructures.
The Thales study, highlighted in the 2026 Data Threat Report: Quantum & AI Trends, surveyed over 3,120 IT and security professionals across 20 different countries. Remarkably, 98% of those surveyed acknowledged that both quantum computing and AI would significantly impact each other. Strikingly, 57% expressed the view that quantum computing could enhance machine learning processes, while 54% believed it would advance simulations of complex systems.
Todd Moore, vice president of data security products at Thales, articulated a key insight from the findings: “AI isn’t distracting organizations from quantum. It is accelerating the need to prepare.” This statement speaks to a growing recognition that the challenges posed by these two technologies are interconnected, urging organizations to take a unified approach rather than treating them as separate challenges.
Separating Leaders from Laggards
The study delineated organizations into two categories—leaders and laggards—based on their engagement with quantum computing and AI. Leaders in quantum computing have already commenced formal explorations of quantum applications, while AI leaders exhibit proactive strategies, utilizing AI to secure a competitive advantage. Notably, these leaders are also achieving commendable results in critical data security metrics, particularly in their ability to classify and safeguard data.
Some revealing statistics emerged from the study: 36% of leaders professed to have comprehensive knowledge regarding the location of their data, and 43% reported being able to classify all their data accurately. In stark contrast, only 28% and 35% of laggard organizations could make similar claims. Additionally, AI leaders were found to be twice as likely to have complete control over cloud encryption keys, underscoring the strategic advantages of effective data management.
Furthermore, the study showed that AI and quantum leaders are more inclined to engage in quantum initiatives, with one-third exploring quantum computing projects compared to just 22% of laggards. On the other hand, organizations spearheading quantum initiatives have also shown a stronger commitment to AI-specific security measures, with 89% of quantum leaders investing in security controls tailored for AI, compared to 80% of their lagging counterparts.
Moore emphasized that the disparities observed reflect broader management cultures and levels of security maturity rather than a simplistic focus on one technology over the other. “Organizations that prioritize security tend to adopt a holistic view,” he pointed out. “They are not merely solving isolated problems; they are addressing larger issues across the organization, establishing foundational safeguards that extend to emerging technologies like quantum.” These safeguards encompass critical areas such as data discovery, encryption, and the necessary monitoring to adjust cryptographic technologies in response to evolving threats.
The Accelerating Need for Quantum Readiness
The urgency surrounding quantum readiness is heightened by concerns regarding the vulnerability of data. Known as the “harvest now, decrypt later” threat, this concern resonated with 61% of survey respondents. However, many organizations appear to be embarking on timelines for preparation that may not be sufficiently proactive. The survey found that 59% of respondents anticipated that their primary quantum security measure would involve prototyping or evaluating post-quantum cryptographic algorithms over the next 18 to 24 months.
Moore raised alarms about such timelines, cautioning that delays could create significant risks. “A lot of organizations are late; waiting until 2028 to evaluate post-quantum technology may leave insufficient time for implementation,” he warned. Particularly for those with complex legacy systems, integrating new cryptographic algorithms could prove challenging. The transition is not as straightforward as flipping a switch; it requires holistic planning and preparation across various technological infrastructures.
This necessity for crypto agility goes beyond mere algorithm selection. Moore elucidated that “crypto agility is about more than just the algorithms. The algorithms will evolve, and new algorithms will emerge; organizations must be prepared to adapt not just their algorithms, but also their associated protocols and certificates.” The survey findings revealed that among organizations exploring quantum technology, 13% were on track with managing certificate lifecycles, while 31% were lagging behind, highlighting discrepancies in preparedness levels.
Guidance for CIOs and CISOs
For technology leaders striving for agility and preparedness, Moore offered clear guidance: “Quantum is on the horizon; organizations need to start preparing now.” The initial step involves identifying critical data locations and ensuring that teams are aware of data sources for effective protection. Furthermore, technology teams should conduct comprehensive inventories of cryptographic implementations across their applications, cloud environments, networks, and identity systems. Engaging with cloud, networking, security, and software providers to clarify migration schedules and compatibility with new standards is equally essential.
Moore also noted that most security leaders do not receive entirely new budgets dedicated to quantum preparation. Instead, organizations are increasingly consolidating their security tools, eliminating redundancies, and leveraging AI to automate tasks, such as cryptographic discovery. This strategic approach aims not only to identify vulnerabilities but also to avoid creating isolated security programs that may contribute to further complexity.
Moore emphasized the importance of a proactive mindset, stating, “This is not merely a one-off project; it’s a long-term planning endeavor that must be initiated soon.” The interconnected worlds of AI and quantum computing will continue to evolve, creating both opportunities and challenges for organizations that embrace forward-thinking strategies and effective data management practices.