Whilst there is growing concern around the rapid rise of AI, more attention needs to be turned towards quantum computing – which is a very real concern for tomorrow’s technological landscape; with disruptive potential across cybersecurity, data regulations, and ethical concerns. Some are already claiming society is in the midst of a ‘Quantum Apocalypse’, as it has the potential to upend our entire security preconceptions. 

Quantum computers have the ability to process information at speeds far beyond current capabilities. This faster processing has the capability to completely upturn what we consider to be secure. These speeds will revolutionalise cryptography and data analysis, as encryption and entire security systems could be broken, leading to global data breaches, identity theft, and disruption to our entire critical infrastructure.

Quantum leap in geopolitical tension 

Major powers, particularly the United States and China, are investing huge amounts in quantum technologies behind closed doors, to put them in a position of unprecedented geological power. With China investing a $138 billion government-backed fund to support emerging technologies including quantum computing, there is a clear race within quantum computing developments, with global superpowers racing to the forefront. China, in particular, is fiercely competing to pioneer the most groundbreaking advancements, raising concern for everyone as they make it a clear priority to position themselves as global leaders in this field. For example, China has additionally launched two satellites capable of performing QKD  from space – betting that leading in quantum development could give it an economic and military advantage against others.

Just as we’ve seen with AI, advancements in quantum computing are underpinned by geopolitical tensions, as political powers crusade in an arms race, a neverending competition of who is going to develop the technology fastest for military, strategic and governmental advantages. As quantum computing technology advances, it has the potential to solve problems currently impossible for classical computers, in a matter of seconds. This technology can excel at tasks involving large datasets and multiple variables, promising to unlock beneficial possibilities across diverse industries, such as making huge advancements in medical research. 

Quantum computing introduces a conflict, as the same quantum breakthroughs which have the potential to benefit society through major healthcare advancements, also introduce existential threats to today’s digital security. Despite quantum computers being relatively new, this new field still has significant risks, and is creeping up on us much faster than we think. With the UK investing a total of £45 million in the UK’s quantum sector last year, as part of its commitment to transforming into a quantum-enabled economy by 2033, it underscores the urgency and potential of this specialism. This substantial commitment reflects the recognition that quantum computing is not a distant prospect, but an imminent reality with far-reaching consequences.

What is the Quantum Apocalypse? 

Although full-scale quantum computers which are capable of breaking high-security encryption are not expected within the next 10 years, the potential impact is so concerning that governments, businesses, and cybersecurity experts are already working to develop quantum-resistant security measures, and there is an urgent call to pay more attention the potential impact which so profound that immediate attention is essential. Its ability to break current encryption systems could lead to catastrophic breaches in privacy, cybersecurity, and national security, once quantum computers become operational.

The future of quantum computing is underpinned with substantial concern, largely because its implications remain poorly understood. While it holds the promise of groundbreaking advancements, it also brings immense risks, especially if wielded irresponsibly or by malicious actors. The quantum arms race among global powers is accelerating, pushing us closer to a potential quantum apocalypse. What was once considered an IT issue has now escalated into a geopolitical battle, demanding urgent action to ensure a responsible and secure quantum future.