Researchers: Quantum Computers Could Become Ultimate Hacking Tool

Luckily we're already working on a solution.

A Secure Threat

Cracking today's most secure encryption would either take a really long time or massive computing power.

But even the most secure data encryption algorithms could soon become ineffective — and it's all the fault of quantum computers.

Quantum Hackers

The age of quantum computing is almost upon us. In a matter of years, quantum computers could become far more powerful than the digital computers we use now.

Harnessing the power of quantum computers could undermine current encryption methods in a matter of days. At least, that's according to a new report by experts at the U.S. National Academics of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine.

Their fear: significant security loopholes could crop up if hackers get their hands on powerful quantum computers before quantum-proof encryption methods become mainstream. Even worse, they predict it could take decades for those quantum-proof systems to roll out across banks, hospitals and other institutions that you don't want to get hacked.

Quantum for the Masses

But not all is lost. Startups like ISARA, a Canadian firm, are already working on encryption methods that are resistant to quantum hacking, the MIT Technology Review reports.

That's a good thing, because it's better to be safe than sorry.

READ MORE: Quantum computers pose a security threat that we’re still totally unprepared for [MIT Technology Review]

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