Monash University experts are available to comment on the Australian government’s almost $1 billion investment to build the world’s first commercially useful quantum computer and cybersecurity measures that are needed to support this quantum leap.
Dr Muhammed Esgin, Department of Software Systems & Cybersecurity, Faculty of Information Technology
Contact details: +61 450 501 248 or media@monash.edu
- Cybersecurity
- Quantum-safe cryptography
- Privacy-enhancing technologies
- Blockchain technologies
The following can be attributed to Dr Esgin:
“As the reality of large-scale quantum computers draws closer, Australia must also pay attention to the impact of quantum computing on cybersecurity. It is well known in the research community that powerful quantum computers can render today’s classical encryption and cybersecurity mechanisms useless. These mechanisms are embedded in every part of our digitalised world from social media to securing critical infrastructure.
“We must prepare for the post-quantum world by also investing in research on quantum-safe technologies including post-quantum cryptography. This preparation should also include training the next generation of experts in quantum-safe technologies.
“Cybercriminals and other powerful adversaries can store encrypted sensitive information today in the hope to recover the information later using a quantum computer. We call this a ‘harvest now, decrypt later’ attack. As a result, today’s sensitive information unprotected against quantum computers may be exploitable in the future.
“It is important to secure our communications and the internet today, well ahead of what researchers informally call ‘Q-Day’, a near future where large-scale quantum computers would become available.”
Associate Professor Ron Steinfeld, Department of Software Systems & Cybersecurity, Faculty of Information Technology
Contact details: +61 450 501 248 or media@monash.edu
- Quantum-safe cryptography
- Blockchain security
The following can be attributed to Associate Professor Steinfeld:
“The research community has developed quantum-safe cryptography technologies that replace existing mechanisms and run on standard classical computers.These new quantum-safe cryptography standards are expected to be deployed over the next few years. Industry and government organisations will need to be trained on how to transition their systems to use these new cryptosystems”.
For any other topics on which you may be seeking expert comment, contact the Monash University Media Unit on +61 3 9903 4840 or media@monash.edu
