Sharon Dolmans, an associate professor in Industrial Engineering and Innovation Sciences at Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e), is leading the interdisciplinary FIQCS project to evaluate and counter the emerging risk of quantum-enabled decryption of today’s encrypted data. Supported by NWO and the Dutch Ministries of Defense and Economic Affairs, the project—working with TNO and industry partners—examines the societal impact of quantum technologies, with particular attention to the “harvest now, decrypt later” threat. The team is exploring the use of quantum key distribution (QKD) to create ultra-secure communication channels, aiming to safeguard sensitive information against future quantum attacks and promote proactive preparedness across society.

Figure 1. Preparing for Future Quantum Cyber Threats

Quantum Computing’s Risk to Today’s Encryption

Current encryption methods, such as RSA and ECC, depend on the difficulty of factoring large numbers or solving elliptic curve problems—tasks that are computationally prohibitive for classical computers, ensuring data security. Quantum computers, however, exploit superposition and entanglement to run algorithms like Shor’s, which can factor large numbers exponentially faster, reducing processes that would take classical computers billions of years to mere seconds. This capability threatens the security of nearly all existing encrypted data. Figure 1 shows Preparing for Future Quantum Cyber Threats.

A concerning scenario is “harvest now, decrypt later,” where attackers collect encrypted data today, planning to decrypt it in the future once quantum computers are powerful enough. Nations like the Netherlands are addressing this risk through initiatives such as the FIQCS project, emphasizing the urgent need to adopt quantum-resistant cryptography before large-scale quantum computing arrives.

Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) offers a potential safeguard. It uses quantum mechanics to securely exchange encryption keys, with any eavesdropping immediately detectable due to the disturbance of quantum states. Although QKD has hardware and range limitations, it is a key technology alongside post-quantum cryptography—mathematical algorithms designed to resist quantum attacks—ensuring the future protection of sensitive data.

FIQCS Initiative: Strengthening Quantum Security and Partnerships

The FIQCS project, led by Sharon Dolmans at TU/e, tackles the emerging threat of quantum computers compromising current encryption systems. Funded by NWO and the Dutch Ministries, the initiative proactively addresses “harvest now, decrypt later” attacks, where data intercepted today could be decrypted once powerful quantum computers exist. FIQCS aims to assess and mitigate this risk across sectors including defense, finance, and healthcare.

A central focus is Quantum Key Distribution (QKD), which leverages quantum mechanics to securely transmit encryption keys—any interception alters the key, instantly alerting users. The project explores practical applications of QKD, ensuring its deployment aligns with societal needs, while collaborating with the Ministry of Defense to safeguard future communications.

FIQCS also emphasizes education and knowledge dissemination. Through workshops, thesis projects, and a dedicated course (“Introduction to Quantum Technologies”), the project raises awareness of quantum security among both specialists and broader stakeholders, encouraging consideration of the social and ethical implications of this emerging technology alongside its technical development.

QKD: Societal Impact & Responsible Use

The rise of quantum computers creates an urgent need for proactive cybersecurity, particularly against “harvest now, decrypt later” attacks, where encrypted data is intercepted today for future decryption. Traditional encryption methods, such as RSA-2048, will become vulnerable, but Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) offers a solution. Leveraging quantum mechanics, QKD ensures that any attempt to intercept encryption keys is immediately detectable, maintaining data confidentiality even against quantum attacks.

Projects like FIQCS at TU/e focus not only on developing QKD technology but also on its responsible implementation [1]. This includes identifying sectors—such as defense and finance—where QKD can have immediate impact, while addressing societal questions around security, access to information, and ethical deployment. Collaborative workshops and engagement with stakeholders are essential for aligning technological innovation with social safety.

Education is also a key component in preparing for a post-quantum world. Courses like “Introduction to Quantum Technologies” teach both the technical aspects of QKD and its societal implications, emphasizing that effective cybersecurity requires not only building secure systems but also understanding and guiding their ethical and social impact.

References:

1. https://quantumzeitgeist.com/quantum-computing-future-hacks/

Cite this article:

Janani R (2025), Quantum Computing Threat Spurs Preparations for Future Cyberattacks, AnaTechMaz, pp.437