Quantum-Safe Technologies: A National Security Imperative

Quantum computing is advancing rapidly, evolving from a theoretical concept into a technological force that could reshape the cybersecurity landscape. As this technology matures, its potential to break current encryption systems—protecting everything from classified government data to personal civilian information—poses an imminent threat to national security. Quantum-enabled algorithms could render today’s cryptographic protections obsolete, leaving civilian and military infrastructures vulnerable. The urgency of adopting Quantum-Safe Technologies to secure our systems against this quantum threat is critical. Governments, industries, and individuals alike must prepare for a future where encryption no longer guarantees the protection it once did.

Purpose of the White Paper: This white paper advocates for a proactive, nationwide strategy to address the quantum computing challenge, focusing on the shift to post-quantum cryptography (PQC)—a new generation of encryption systems designed to withstand quantum-powered attacks. The federal government must lead this transition, as it controls vast amounts of sensitive data across civilian, military, and intelligence sectors. However, safeguarding this data is not just a technical challenge—it’s a race against time to protect national security and civilian privacy. A coordinated response, including policy reforms, strategic investments, and public-private partnerships, is essential to securing the systems that underpin government operations, military defense, and the protection of Americans’ most critical information.

Target Audience: This paper is intended for key stakeholders responsible for mitigating the quantum threat, including policymakers, cybersecurity professionals, IT leaders, defense sector executives, and leading advisory firms such as those within the Big 4. By outlining the risks and necessary actions, we aim to equip decision-makers with the knowledge to act swiftly and effectively. Equally important is informing American citizens, whose personal and financial information is at risk, about the vulnerabilities they face as quantum technology advances.

Estimated Total Cost: The transition to post-quantum cryptography is a monumental undertaking. Initial estimates suggest that securing U.S. government infrastructure—spanning civilian, military, and intelligence agencies—could cost between $21.5 billion and $32 billion over the next decade. This investment will fund the procurement of quantum-safe hardware and algorithms, software upgrades, expert consulting, and comprehensive testing and validation procedures. These costs reflect the scale and complexity of the task, as every agency—from the Department of Defense to civilian data centers—must be upgraded to ensure protection against future quantum threats.

The magnitude of this transition underscores the need for clear timelines and effective resource allocation. By 2035, all federal systems must be equipped to defend against quantum-enabled breaches (FedScoop, 2022). Timely implementation will be critical to securing U.S. infrastructure and maintaining national security in the quantum era.

Understanding Quantum Threats

Quantum computing is no longer just a theoretical concept; it is quickly moving into practical application, posing significant risks to the data security infrastructure upon which governments, the military, and civilians rely. The unique properties of quantum computers—superposition and entanglement—enable them to perform calculations exponentially faster than classical computers, potentially breaking the encryption methods that have safeguarded sensitive data for decades. As quantum technology matures, this capability presents an immediate and growing threat, necessitating swift action across all sectors.

Introduction to Quantum Computing

At its core, quantum computing harnesses the principles of quantum mechanics to process information in ways classical computers cannot. Through phenomena like superposition—the ability for a quantum system to be in multiple states simultaneously—and entanglement, where one quantum particle’s state can instantly influence another, quantum computers can solve complex problems at a scale and speed far surpassing classical capabilities. This unprecedented processing power has profound implications for fields ranging from material science and artificial intelligence to cryptography.

For decades, encryption systems have relied on the complexity of certain mathematical problems—such as factoring large numbers or solving discrete logarithms—that are difficult for classical computers to compute in a reasonable time frame. Public key cryptography, the foundation of most encryption systems, assumes these problems are practically unsolvable by classical computing power. However, quantum computers can solve these problems with relative ease, rendering current encryption methods vulnerable to future quantum-enabled attacks (NIST, 2022).

Impact on Civilian Privacy, Government Data, and Military

The quantum threat spans all sectors, with significant implications for civilian privacy, government data, and military infrastructure.

• Civilian Privacy: Quantum computers could break encryption systems that protect private data, including health records, personal communications, and financial transactions. Quantum-enabled attacks could lead to massive breaches of privacy, with data such as medical records or credit card information potentially exposed once quantum computers become capable enough.
• Government Data: The impact on national security could be even more severe. Encryption safeguarding government communications, intelligence, and defense strategies could be compromised by quantum algorithms. This would expose sensitive government data to risks like espionage and cyber warfare, jeopardizing national security and global positioning.
• Military Systems: Military systems protecting nuclear codes, defense infrastructure, and other critical assets are especially vulnerable. Current encryption protocols, designed to withstand conventional attacks, may fail against quantum computing, leaving military strategies exposed to unforeseen vulnerabilities.

Scale of the Challenge

Transitioning to post-quantum cryptography (PQC) is no simple task. Governments, military organizations, and private companies have spent decades building complex encryption infrastructures, which are deeply embedded in everything from communication systems to financial transactions. These legacy systems, however, were not designed to withstand quantum-enabled attacks and will require extensive overhauls to meet new quantum-safe standards.

Replacing or upgrading these systems is particularly challenging because many organizations rely on systems built decades ago. The resources needed for such an overhaul are immense, and there is no simple “switch” to make legacy systems quantum-resistant (QuantumXchange, 2024). Transitioning to PQC will involve implementing new cryptographic algorithms, integrating quantum-safe hardware and software solutions, and ensuring backward compatibility across existing systems.

The challenge’s scope is vast, and timelines for widespread adoption of PQC must align with quantum computing advancements. Adding to the urgency is the “Harvest Now, Decrypt Later” (HNDL) attack model, where attackers intercept encrypted data today, intending to decrypt it later when quantum computers can break current encryption. This poses a significant risk to long-term data, such as diplomatic communications, trade secrets, and military strategies, which could be exposed once quantum capabilities reach a sufficient level.

Strategic Response: The Way Forward

Addressing the quantum threat requires more than just technical fixes; it is a matter of national security, privacy, and economic stability. A coordinated, proactive response is essential to mitigating the risks posed by quantum computing.

1. Government Leadership: Governments must prioritize quantum-safe research and development, support the implementation of post-quantum cryptographic standards, and foster international cooperation. The quantum threat transcends national borders, and global collaboration is vital for securing the digital infrastructure of tomorrow.
2. Private Sector Engagement: The private sector, spanning industries like finance, healthcare, and telecommunications, plays a critical role in adopting quantum-safe solutions. Public-private partnerships will foster innovation, share knowledge, and ensure adequate resource allocation for the transition.
3. Economic and Technological Balance: Beyond mitigating security risks, quantum computing holds vast potential for revolutionizing industries and driving economic growth. Governments must balance the risks with opportunities, ensuring that national security is upheld while embracing innovations in artificial intelligence, materials science, and drug discovery.

Quantum-Safe Technologies for Infrastructure and Civilian Privacy

The race to safeguard critical infrastructure and civilian privacy from quantum-enabled cyber threats has become a national imperative. As quantum computing’s capabilities advance, government agencies face mounting pressure to implement post-quantum cryptography (PQC) across diverse systems to protect the integrity of personal data and national systems. This effort demands not only technological upgrades but also seamless interoperability between legacy systems and quantum-safe solutions. Meeting this challenge will require strategic coordination between the public and private sectors to establish robust protections in the quantum era.

Securing Civilian Privacy

Protecting personal data in sectors like healthcare, finance, and education has become a top priority as quantum computing renders classical encryption methods—such as RSA and ECC—obsolete. The vast computational power of quantum machines poses a direct threat to these encryption standards, leaving private information vulnerable unless quantum-safe cryptographic algorithms are deployed.

However, transitioning to these advanced algorithms is far from simple. Government agencies responsible for safeguarding personal data must address two pressing challenges: rapidly upgrading existing encryption systems and ensuring that quantum-resistant methods are integrated seamlessly with legacy systems. Agencies must also work swiftly to avoid security gaps during the transition, balancing speed with the need for rigorous security testing of new cryptographic standards.

Cross-agency collaboration is critical to avoid a fragmented approach that could leave vulnerabilities in the system. By harmonizing efforts and sharing best practices, agencies can reduce complexity and ensure that privacy protections evolve alongside the quantum threat landscape.

Upgrading Infrastructure for Quantum Resilience

Preparing for quantum threats requires extensive upgrades to existing infrastructure, including the deployment of quantum-resistant encryption algorithms. Legacy systems—still widely used by government and private-sector organizations—present a significant obstacle, as they were not built with compatibility for quantum-safe solutions in mind. These systems will need comprehensive overhauls, a process that is both technically complex and resource intensive.

Interoperability between outdated systems and modern quantum-resistant technologies is a key challenge. Agencies must prioritize updates based on data sensitivity and risk exposure to ensure that resources are allocated effectively. Automated tools, like the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Automated Cryptography Discovery and Inventory (ACDI) strategy, can provide essential support by identifying, cataloging, and assessing existing cryptographic systems (CISA, 2024). This approach enables agencies to systematically plan and execute upgrades, reducing operational disruption and aligning with the broader timeline for PQC adoption.

Beyond personal data, quantum-safe cryptography is essential to safeguard critical infrastructure systems integral to national security and public safety, including energy grids, transportation networks, and communications systems. As adversaries leverage quantum technology to breach current encryption protocols, the risk of large-scale disruptions—such as power grid failures or compromised communication systems—grows exponentially.

Protecting National Critical Infrastructure

Collaboration between government agencies and private-sector organizations is vital to implementing quantum-safe encryption standards across critical infrastructure. Retrofitting existing systems will require a phased approach to minimize disruptions while ensuring compatibility with quantum-resistant technologies. Testing and validation at each stage will be crucial to maintaining the smooth operation of national infrastructure and mitigating potential risks.

Once again, the NIST ACDI strategy offers a valuable roadmap, guiding stakeholders through the complexities of post-quantum cryptographic adoption. By identifying vulnerabilities and prioritizing updates, this framework helps ensure that critical infrastructure remains resilient against emerging threats.

Evaluating the True Cost of Post-Quantum Cryptography for Civilian Agencies

The transition to post-quantum cryptography (PQC) represents a pivotal yet costly endeavor for civilian government agencies. The Office of Management and Budget (OMB) projects a $7.1 billion expenditure for this transition over the next decade, excluding military and intelligence agencies (Federal News Network, 2024). While this figure acknowledges the financial demands of adopting quantum-resistant technologies, it likely underestimates the true scope and complexity of such a transition. The successful implementation of PQC across civilian agencies will require significant investments in infrastructure upgrades, workforce development, and extensive testing protocols.

OMB’s Estimate: A Starting Point

The OMB’s $7.1 billion projection (spanning 2025–2035) allocates funds primarily for cryptographic upgrades and system transitions. However, it falls short of fully accounting for the broader scope of this transformation. Key factors such as updating diverse systems, ensuring interoperability, and addressing emerging challenges are underrepresented. Moreover, the projection excludes costs for parallel transitions in military and intelligence agencies, which face similar technical and logistical hurdles.

Why the Estimate Falls Short

Industry analyses have consistently shown that large-scale IT projects often experience significant cost overruns. For instance, a study by McKinsey & Company found that nearly 50% of public sector IT projects exceed their budgets with an average overrun of 108%, and multiple projects exceed their budget by as much as 400% (McKinsey & Company, 2022).

Given that the OMB states that its estimate of $7.1 billion to implement post-quantum cryptography (PQC) for civilian agencies “reflects a high level of uncertainty,” it is prudent to anticipate potential cost increases based on historical data. Applying conservative overrun percentages to the OMB’s estimate suggests that actual costs could range from approximately $9.5 billion (a 34% increase) to $14 billion (a 97% increase).

This analysis aligns closely with the PQC transition challenges identified by NIST and industry experts, which emphasize the complexity of infrastructure upgrades, workforce development, software integration, and rigorous testing. The following four categories reflect the anticipated share of the total cost, and are based on percentage allocations derived from historical spending patterns in similar large-scale IT conversion projects, with amounts rounded to the nearest $500 million:

1. Infrastructure Modernization (29%): Transitioning to quantum-safe cryptography demands substantial infrastructure upgrades, including replacing or reengineering legacy hardware. Servers, secure storage devices, and specialized processors must be modernized to support quantum-resistant encryption.
   • Cost Estimate: Government IT infrastructure upgrades of this scale are typically projected at $3–$4 billion, encompassing hardware procurement, installation, and maintenance.
2. Expertise and Workforce Development (18%): Civilian agencies must build a skilled workforce capable of implementing and managing PQC systems. This includes hiring external consultants with expertise in cryptographic migration and delivering robust training programs for existing IT staff.
   • Cost Estimate: Workforce transformation initiatives of similar scale are estimated at $1.5–$2.5 billion, covering training, consultancy fees, and recruitment of specialized personnel.
3. Software and Algorithm Integration (35%): Agencies will need to procure and integrate quantum-safe cryptographic algorithms while ensuring compatibility with existing applications. Legacy software systems will also require updates to align with evolving cryptographic standards.
   • Cost Estimate: Software procurement and integration efforts are projected at $3.5–$5 billion, accounting for licensing, system updates, and ongoing maintenance.
4. Comprehensive Testing (18%): The implementation of PQC systems requires rigorous testing, including penetration tests, compliance checks, and simulated quantum-enabled attack scenarios. Third-party validation will also be critical to mitigating risks.
   • Cost Estimate: Testing and validation costs are estimated at $1.5–$2.5 billion, reflecting the complexity of securing diverse systems across multiple agencies.

A More Realistic Financial Projection

Factoring in these critical areas, a more accurate cost estimate for the civilian government’s PQC transition ranges from $9.5 billion to $14 billion. This range better aligns with industry benchmarks and reflects the realities of modernizing infrastructure, upskilling personnel, and conducting extensive testing.

Aligning Budget with Reality

The OMB’s estimate underscores the urgency of action but risks leaving civilian agencies vulnerable by underfunding this critical transition. A misaligned budget could create significant challenges:

• Underfunding Risks: Insufficient resources may leave vital systems exposed to quantum-enabled threats, compromising data security and operational continuity.
• Overestimating Risks: Conversely, excessive budgetary allocations could strain resources unnecessarily, diverting funds from other critical priorities.

By aligning projected costs with the true scale of the task, federal agencies can strike a balance between preparedness and financial prudence. This approach ensures a coordinated, well-funded transition that protects civilian systems and upholds national resilience in the post-quantum era.

Addressing Military and Intelligence Risks with Quantum-Safe Technologies

As quantum computing accelerates toward practical application, military and intelligence agencies confront unparalleled risks that demand urgent and tailored quantum risk management strategies. These sectors handle the most sensitive and strategically critical information—ranging from military communications and nuclear command systems to intelligence data that shapes national security. Quantum computing’s potential to compromise traditional encryption methods poses an existential threat to the confidentiality, integrity, and reliability of these core operations.

Post-Quantum Security for Military Operations

The immediate concern for military agencies lies in securing communications systems that rely on cryptographic protocols to maintain operational security. A quantum-enabled breach could decrypt classified communications in minutes, leaving critical tactical and strategic discussions vulnerable to interception or manipulation. The implications extend beyond battlefield communications, threatening command and control systems, real-time operational directives, and strategic decisions crucial to national security.

Furthermore, the potential quantum exploitation of nuclear command-and-control systems represents one of the most alarming threats. These systems must remain impervious to adversarial interference, as even the slightest compromise could undermine deterrence strategies and global stability. Similarly, the vulnerability of military satellites to quantum-enabled attacks could disrupt navigation, reconnaissance, and secure communications, creating operational chaos and jeopardizing critical military functions.

Securing Intelligence Data Against Quantum Threats

The intelligence community faces equally significant risks, given its reliance on encryption to secure classified data and covert communications. Agencies like the NSA, CIA, and FBI safeguard information that remains strategically valuable for decades. Quantum computing’s capability to decrypt algorithms such as RSA and ECC threatens to expose historical and real-time intelligence, jeopardizing operational integrity and the safety of agents in the field.

In addition to data decryption, quantum-enabled attacks on surveillance systems, secure data exchanges, and covert operations could dismantle intelligence networks, disrupt mission-critical activities, and compromise national security. A proactive transition to post-quantum cryptography is essential to preemptively address these threats, ensuring that intelligence agencies remain resilient in an evolving threat landscape.

Broader Implications for National Security

The intersection of quantum computing and global cybersecurity has far-reaching implications. Adversaries with advanced quantum capabilities could destabilize geopolitical balances by exposing classified military strategies, diplomatic communications, and defense mechanisms. This intensifies the urgency for military and intelligence agencies to lead the charge in adopting quantum-resistant solutions.

As countries like China and Russia escalate their quantum research and development efforts, the U.S. must prioritize securing its information networks to maintain a competitive edge (Quantum Insider, 2024). Failure to address these challenges could result in espionage, economic sabotage, and weakened international alliances, threatening global stability.

Tailored Solutions for Mission-Critical Systems

Unlike civilian agencies, military and intelligence sectors require highly specialized quantum-safe solutions that align with their complex, mission-critical infrastructures. From satellite communications and cryptographic protocols to the management of highly classified information, these systems demand rigorous testing, validation, and seamless integration of quantum-resistant technologies.

Projecting the Costs of Securing Military and Intelligence Systems

While the OMB’s cost estimates focus on civilian agencies, military and intelligence agencies face a significantly higher financial burden in their transition to post-quantum cryptography. The scale of modernization, the procurement of specialized quantum-safe hardware and software, and the development of a skilled workforce to manage these systems will far exceed civilian requirements.

The next section delves into the projected costs of this transition, providing a comprehensive rationale and detailed breakdown of the financial investments required to ensure these critical systems remain secure against quantum-enabled threats.

Projecting Costs for DOD and Intelligence Agencies

Transitioning to post-quantum cryptography (PQC) for the Department of Defense (DOD) and intelligence agencies presents unique challenges due to their specialized, mission-critical systems. These include satellite communications, nuclear command-and-control networks, and sensitive intelligence infrastructure—all requiring customized, highly secure solutions. Compared to civilian agencies, the scope and depth of these transitions result in significantly elevated costs. Below is a detailed assessment of the key cost drivers:

Key Cost Areas

• Infrastructure Modernization: Transitioning to quantum-safe cryptography will require extensive modernization of defense and intelligence infrastructure. Legacy hardware, including secure servers, storage devices, and specialized processors, must be replaced or reengineered to support quantum-resistant encryption tailored to classified environments. Additionally, military-grade customization and certification will be necessary to meet the stringent operational demands of defense missions. These upgrades will extend beyond civilian agency requirements, reflecting the heightened security and performance standards essential for mission-critical operations.
• Workforce Upskilling: Training personnel to manage and secure quantum-safe systems will be a significant expense. Defense and intelligence agencies require specialized training programs to equip staff with advanced skills for implementing and troubleshooting PQC. These programs may involve collaboration with defense contractors and industry experts, adding to overall costs.
• Software and Algorithm Development: Custom quantum-safe algorithms will be needed to integrate seamlessly into existing systems while providing robust security. Developing these advanced algorithms to meet the high standards of military and intelligence applications will involve substantial investment, both in terms of development timelines and complexity.
• Validation and Testing: Rigorous testing of quantum-safe systems is non-negotiable for national security. Defense agencies must simulate various attack scenarios to validate the resilience of quantum-safe algorithms and ensure redundancy and fail-safe mechanisms are in place. Extensive field testing and certification processes will ensure seamless integration into mission-critical operations, substantially increasing costs compared to civilian systems.

Estimated Costs for DOD and Intelligence Agencies

Based on civilian agency projections, the transition to PQC for defense and intelligence agencies is estimated to cost between $12 billion and $18 billion. This range represents a 69% to 154% increase over the OMB’s civilian agency estimate of $7.1 billion, reflecting the additional complexities and requirements of military-grade systems. These estimates remain conservative when compared to the findings of the McKinsey study, which highlights significant budget overruns in large-scale IT transformations. Key cost drivers include:

• Higher levels of hardware and software customization
• Certification to meet stringent national security standards
• Comprehensive training programs for specialized personnel
• Operational challenges associated with integrating quantum-safe technologies into existing classified infrastructure

Contextualizing the Investment

The projected costs surpass civilian agency estimates ($9.5 billion to $14 billion), underscoring the heightened security, complexity, and urgency required for military and intelligence systems. These investments will enable agencies to defend against the disruptive potential of quantum computing while preserving the integrity and effectiveness of mission-critical operations.

By ensuring robust, quantum-resistant capabilities, the DOD and intelligence agencies can maintain their strategic edge in an era of rapidly advancing technological threats.

Comprehensive Strategy for Addressing Quantum Threats

As quantum computing technology evolves rapidly, the urgency of implementing a comprehensive strategy to mitigate its associated risks grows exponentially. A fragmented, siloed approach to securing national infrastructure—spanning civilian networks, government systems, and military operations—is insufficient. A unified, cross-sector national strategy is imperative to safeguard against the disruptive potential of quantum computing.

A Holistic Framework

An effective national strategy must take a holistic approach to quantum risk management, recognizing that quantum threats transcend individual sectors. A robust framework should foster collaboration and resource-sharing across government agencies, private enterprises, research institutions, and international partners.

Central to this strategy is the swift adoption of post-quantum cryptography (PQC) standards. A seamless transition to quantum-resistant technologies across civilian, government, and military domains requires a coordinated effort. Key components of this strategy include:

• Research and Development: Prioritizing investments in quantum-safe solutions, particularly in cryptography, to secure sensitive data and critical infrastructure.
• Workforce Development: Building a robust pipeline of quantum-trained experts capable of addressing the growing demand for skills across multiple domains.
• Infrastructure Modernization: Updating legacy systems to ensure quantum readiness, necessitating significant investments across both public and private sectors.

Public-Private Partnerships

The government cannot tackle quantum risks alone; collaboration with the private sector is essential for developing, testing, and deploying quantum-safe solutions at scale. Partnerships with quantum startups and established consulting firms will accelerate innovation and ensure readiness across industries. The following two examples illustrate the critical role these organizations play in addressing quantum security challenges.

• Engaging Quantum Startups: Companies like SandboxAQ are uniquely positioned to drive innovation in quantum cryptography. Their significance is highlighted by their 2022 contract with the U.S. Air Force under the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program. This partnership focused on conducting cryptographic inventory analysis and developing a crypto-agile framework to safeguard Air Force and Space Force data networks against quantum attacks (SandboxAQ, 2022). With a $5.6 billion valuation—the highest among quantum software startups—SandboxAQ combines unmatched expertise with proven, scalable solutions already adopted by leading financial institutions, healthcare providers, and government agencies. Their demonstrated ability to support critical national security priorities makes them an ideal partner in accelerating PQC deployment.
• Strategic Collaboration with Consulting Firms: Ernst & Young (EY) serves as a compelling example of the expertise consulting firms can bring to quantum risk management. EY’s active involvement in the quantum space includes partnerships with quantum technology providers like SandboxAQ, showcasing their ability to integrate cutting-edge innovations into comprehensive risk management frameworks (PR Newswire, 2022). Their work spans readiness assessments, strategy development, and tailored solutions for sector-specific challenges, aligning with the needs of government agencies and private enterprises alike. EY’s focus on combining technical expertise with actionable strategies highlights the valuable role consulting firms play in preparing industries for the quantum era (EY, 2024).

Incentives such as grants, research funding, and tax benefits should encourage these collaborations, while public-private partnerships, regulatory frameworks offering streamlined approval processes, and access to government-backed testing facilities further ensure both sectors are equally committed to quantum security.

Legislative and Policy Support

For a national strategy to succeed, robust legislative and policy backing is essential. Clear guidance, standards, and financial support must come from Congress and other governing bodies to ensure a seamless transition to quantum-safe systems.

• Government Standards and Guidance: Adopting and enforcing guidelines such as those developed by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) will align efforts across sectors. Broader adoption of these standards is critical to ensuring consistency and security.
• Funding the PQC Transition: Adequate funding must be allocated for research, development, and implementation of quantum-safe technologies. This funding should flow to both governmental and non-governmental entities to ensure resources are distributed equitably.
• International Cooperation: Quantum risks are global in scope, necessitating international collaboration on PQC standards. Multilateral agreements between powers such as the United States and the European Union will ensure secure communication, interoperability, and a unified global response to quantum threats.

Building a Quantum-Safe Future

Addressing quantum threats requires an unprecedented level of cooperation among government agencies, private enterprises, and global partners. By fostering collaboration, providing clear policy direction, and making strategic investments, the nation can develop and deploy quantum-safe solutions that protect critical infrastructure and maintain global competitiveness.

Educating and Engaging American Citizens

As quantum computing evolves, equipping American citizens with the knowledge to safeguard their data is essential. While the technology’s complexities can be daunting, simplifying the risks and empowering proactive measures are critical to ensuring the public is prepared for the challenges and opportunities of the quantum era.

Raising Awareness

Quantum computing’s potential to break encryption standards poses significant risks to personal data, including financial transactions, healthcare information, and private communications. Yet, many citizens perceive these threats as distant, abstract concerns.

To address this gap, public awareness efforts must make quantum risks tangible and relatable. Simplifying technical concepts through educational campaigns, public service announcements, and partnerships with trusted community leaders—such as educators, local officials, and cybersecurity experts—can help shift the conversation from abstract technology to real-world consequences, such as identity theft, financial fraud, and privacy breaches.

Key strategies to engage the public include:

• Public Campaigns: Develop relatable campaigns using analogies to make quantum risks accessible, emphasizing the personal stakes for citizens.
• Community Engagement: Collaborate with local organizations to host events and webinars that educate citizens about quantum computing, data security risks, and actionable steps for protection.

Promoting Practical Steps

Raising awareness is only the first step. Empowering citizens with practical actions to secure their data is equally vital. Though quantum computing remains in development, the need for a proactive cybersecurity culture is immediate.

Encourage foundational cybersecurity practices, such as Quantum-Safe Technologies, to secure digital assets against future quantum risks:

• Password Management: Advocate for strong, unique passwords and promote the use of password managers, potentially through government-supported access programs.
• Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Highlight MFA as a simple yet effective way to secure accounts and prevent unauthorized access.

Building Public Trust in Government Efforts

Citizens must also feel assured that the government is leading efforts to implement Quantum-Safe Technologies to address quantum threats. Transparent communication about progress in implementing Quantum-Safe Technologies, including quantum-safe encryption, and securing national infrastructure fosters public confidence and cooperation.

To strengthen trust, federal agencies should provide regular updates through briefings, newsletters, and social media on:

• The development of quantum-safe systems.
• Collaborative efforts with public and private sector experts to fortify national defenses.

Inspiring Vigilance

In addition to education and reassurance, fostering a sense of urgency and responsibility is essential. Quantum risks may seem distant, but the transition to Quantum-Safe Technologies must begin now to prevent future vulnerabilities.

Recommended initiatives include:

• Educational Resources: Offer accessible tools, videos, and guides to help citizens secure their digital presence.
• Community-Based Workshops: Provide tailored cybersecurity training for diverse groups, including small business owners, students, and seniors.

By raising awareness, empowering proactive steps, and fostering trust, the U.S. can prepare its citizens for the quantum future. While the government leads these efforts, individuals must embrace a culture of cybersecurity vigilance, ensuring personal and national security in an increasingly complex digital landscape.

Next Steps for Implementing Quantum-Safe Technologies

The quantum computing revolution is fast approaching, making preparation an urgent priority. Transitioning to post-quantum cryptography (PQC) is not just a technological challenge—it is a national security imperative. The cost of inaction far outweighs the financial and operational investment required to secure critical infrastructure.

Key Takeaways

Transitioning to PQC involves challenges that extend beyond procurement costs. For government and military agencies, quantum-safe technologies demand significant investment. However, the risks of delayed action—catastrophic encryption breaches and exposure of sensitive data—are far greater.

The path forward requires decisive action across policy, technology, and workforce domains.

Strategic Actions for the Quantum Era

1. Policy Leadership: Federal and state lawmakers must prioritize funding and legislation to advance PQC research and implementation. A unified national strategy should address resource allocation for technology adoption, workforce training, and cybersecurity standards.
2. Public-Private Collaboration: Strong partnerships between government and industry are essential to drive innovation and ensure practical solutions. Engagement with quantum startups, research institutions, and cybersecurity leaders will accelerate progress. For instance, consulting firms like E&Y can offer critical expertise in navigating PQC transitions.
3. Workforce Training: Investing in specialized training programs is essential to build a capable workforce. Both public and private sectors must upskill teams to design, implement, and maintain quantum-safe cryptographic systems.
4. Citizen Engagement: Public awareness campaigns should focus on educating citizens about quantum risks and promoting basic cybersecurity practices, such as multi-factor authentication and password management. Empowering individuals reduces vulnerabilities across the digital landscape.
5. Global Standards: Quantum threats are global in nature, requiring international collaboration. Nations must work together to establish interoperable Quantum-Safe Technologies standards and share intelligence to counter quantum-enabled cyberattacks.

Acting Today to Secure Tomorrow

The quantum era is closer than we think. By fostering collaboration, prioritizing innovation, and preparing our workforce, we can protect our digital infrastructure and seize the opportunities that quantum computing presents. The time for action is now—decisions made today will shape the security of tomorrow.

Sources:

FedScoop

NIST

QuantumXchange

CISA

Federal News Network

McKinsey

Quantum Insider

SandboxAQ

PR Newswire

EY