The Impact of Quantum Computing on Security in Emerging Technologies

Quantum computing is rapidly shifting from high-tech lab to mainstream commercial use in the next few years, representing the next breakthrough in modern ICT. It is motivated by quantum computer's ability to perform computational tasks with efficiencies that are not possible with classical computers. Quantum computing technology has a lasting potential impact on society and broad implications on many aspects of our lives. Although quantum computing has several advantages, it threatens the security of current cryptographic techniques. It is expected that quantum computers will be able to solve the key distribution problem and break every single cryptography and authentication algorithm based on asymmetric cryptography. New emerging technologies such as the Internet of Things, blockchain, autonomous vehicles, 5G, artificial intelligence and robotics all rely on cryptography for their secure operation. Therefore, the realisation of quantum computing will pose significant challenges to the current progress and future development of these technologies. In this paper, the quantum technology preliminaries are discussed. The possible impact of quantum technologies on emerging technologies is investigated. Finally, some of the currently available quantum-safe cryptosystems devoted to protecting computer systems in the quantum era are discussed.