Organizations Alarmingly Unprepared for Quantum Computing’s Imminent Influence
Recent research conducted by ISACA has illuminated a concerning landscape regarding the embrace of quantum computing among cyber and IT professionals. The study reveals that more than half of these professionals perceive quantum computing as a catalyst for new business opportunities, with an additional 44% anticipating revolutionary innovations stemming from this technology. However, the optimism coexists with a stark reality: organizations are inadequately preparing for the seismic shifts that quantum computing is poised to introduce.
Despite the hopeful expectations surrounding quantum computing, the research highlights substantial apprehensions among IT professionals. A worrying two-thirds (67%) of respondents fear that the advent of quantum computing could exacerbate or alter cybersecurity risks over the next decade. Additionally, 40% express concern that it may disrupt entrenched business models across various sectors. Most alarmingly, 67% of respondents fear that quantum computing could undermine today’s internet encryption standards before adequate post-quantum cryptography solutions are fully deployed.
Chris Dimitriadis, Chief Global Strategy Officer at ISACA, emphasized the urgency of addressing these challenges. He noted: “Given recent quantum advancements and breakthroughs, we can expect quantum computing to be present in our day-to-day platforms and processes within the next few years. Whilst this will present great opportunities for innovation in several industries, significant cybersecurity risks emerge both in terms of quantum in a silo as well as through the rise of Quantum AI.” Dimitriadis pointed out that encryption protocols, pivotal for securing business transactions and communications, could become obsolete due to quantum computing, rendering essential services vulnerable.
Despite these clear concerns, only a meager 4% of organizations currently possess a defined strategy for quantum computing. Alarmingly, just over half (52%) report that quantum computing has not been integrated into their formal strategy or roadmap, with no immediate plans to address this gap. Furthermore, 40% of cyber and IT professionals indicate that their organizations have not yet contemplated the implementation of post-quantum cryptography, underscoring a widespread unpreparedness.
The research also underscores a significant knowledge deficit in quantum computing within many organizations. A mere 2% claim to have a robust understanding of quantum computing capabilities, while only 5% profess familiarity with the new post-quantum cryptography standards developed by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). Despite NIST’s long efforts over the past decade, the low level of quantum literacy reveals an alarming readiness gap, putting organizations at risk of inadequate defenses against emerging threats and compliance with future regulations.
Recognizing this shortfall, the UK Government has initiated measures to enhance quantum literacy and skills among professionals. With a pledge of over £60 million aimed at establishing new quantum skills programs through to 2034, the government is laying groundwork for a skilled workforce poised to meet the challenges posed by quantum technology. However, experts believe this effort must be amplified to ensure a comprehensive and proficient workforce capable of navigating the quantum landscape effectively.
Dimitriadis further commented on the pressing need for organizations to take proactive steps, stating, “As a society that relies so heavily on digital systems, it’s imperative that we take this seriously. Organizations must make sure that they are planning their operations for a post-quantum world while continuing to develop a holistically trained workforce in AI.” He underscored that deferring this critical preparation could jeopardize not just individual businesses but the stability of the global economy itself.
To transition successfully into a post-quantum era, Dimitriadis advocates for the establishment of a thoroughly trained workforce in quantum technologies and concurrent planning for the adoption of these innovations. He emphasized that while the benefits of quantum computing can lead to transformative advancements, ensuring a safe integration into existing systems is crucial for fostering innovation and safeguarding organizational integrity.
As the era of quantum computing steadily approaches, the findings from ISACA’s research serve as a clarion call for organizations to step up their efforts in preparing for this groundbreaking technology. Without timely action, they risk being outpaced by the rapid evolution of quantum advancements and the complexities that accompany them.