Information technology is vital in handling critical infrastructures, such as power grids, water supplies, healthcare, transportation networks, and infrastructures in space. Quantum computing has potential to revolutionise critical infrastructures by enabling faster optimisation, simulation, and data analysis for complex systems. The adoption of quantum technologies demands the reconsideration of cybersecurity protocols to mitigate quantum-era threats. Along with the technological progress in quantum computing, there is a risk of cyberattacks leading to research questions, asking: what new quantum computing algorithms are being designed to secure critical infrastructures; how they compare to conventional methods; how quantum computing algorithms are being designed to enhance the reliability of critical infrastructures; and what quantum computing methods are emerging for ensuring the stability and accuracy of computations critical to infrastructure management? This work focuses on answering these research questions by presenting a scoping review conducted by considering 420 research articles. The scoping review shows the possibilities that can be achieved by implementing various algorithms and methods for cybersecurity. The study encircles many categories, such as optimisation, security, networking, algorithms, protocols, communication, power systems, and space science, and shows that quantum computing can enhance their protection. This study discusses techniques for the cybersecurity of critical infrastructures in quantum computing and presents results on infrastructure analysis. We targeted various research phrases regarding the research questions mentioned about algorithms and methods for cybersecurity of critical infrastructure in quantum computing. This work calls for the reader to consider the various ways to protect critical infrastructures from different threats, including cyberattacks.
Information technology is vital in handling critical infrastructures, such as power grids, water supplies, healthcare, transportation networks, and infrastructures in space. Quantum computing has potential to revolutionise critical infrastructures by enabling faster optimisation, simulation, and data analysis for complex systems. The adoption of quantum technologies demands the reconsideration of cybersecurity protocols to mitigate quantum-era threats. Along with the technological progress in quantum computing, there is a risk of cyberattacks leading to research questions, asking: what new quantum computing algorithms are being designed to secure critical infrastructures; how they compare to conventional methods; how quantum computing algorithms are being designed to enhance the reliability of critical infrastructures; and what quantum computing methods are emerging for ensuring the stability and accuracy of computations critical to infrastructure management? This work focuses on answering these research questions by presenting a scoping review conducted by considering 420 research articles. The scoping review shows the possibilities that can be achieved by implementing various algorithms and methods for cybersecurity. The study encircles many categories, such as optimisation, security, networking, algorithms, protocols, communication, power systems, and space science, and shows that quantum computing can enhance their protection. This study discusses techniques for the cybersecurity of critical infrastructures in quantum computing and presents results on infrastructure analysis. We targeted various research phrases regarding the research questions mentioned about algorithms and methods for cybersecurity of critical infrastructure in quantum computing. This work calls for the reader to consider the various ways to protect critical infrastructures from different threats, including cyberattacks.
Quantum computing is a cutting-edge field of information technology that harnesses the principles of quantum mechanics to perform computations. It has major implications for the cyber security industry. Existing cyber protection applications are working well, but there are still challenges and vulnerabilities in computer networks. Sometimes data and privacy are also compromised. These complications lead to research questions asking what kind of cyber protection applications of quantum computing are there and what potential methods or techniques can be used for cyber protection? These questions will reveal how much power quantum computing has and to what extent it can outperform the conventional computing systems. This scoping review was conducted by considering 815 papers. It showed the possibilities that can be achieved if quantum technologies are implemented in cyber environments. This scoping review discusses various domains such as algorithms and applications, bioinformatics, cloud and edge computing, the organization of complex systems, application areas focused on security and threats, and the broader quantum computing ecosystem. In each of these areas, there is significant scope for quantum computing to be implemented and to revolutionize the working environment. Numerous quantum computing applications for cyber protection and a number of techniques to protect our data and privacy were identified. The results are not limited to network security but also include data security. This paper also discusses societal aspects, e.g., the applications of quantum computing in the social sciences. This scoping review discusses how to enhance the efficiency and security of quantum computing in various cyber security domains. Additionally, it encourages the reader to think about what kind of techniques and methods can be deployed to secure the cyber world.
Abstract The use of quantum technologies in the modern world poses significant challenges to the security of critical information infrastructure, which underpins key sectors such as healthcare, energy, transportation, and communications. Cryptographic algorithms like RSA and ECC, long considered reliable, have lost their resilience in the face of quantum computing capabilities, making the search for modern solutions to ensure data protection a top priority. The main risks posed by quantum computers include the potential compromise of encryption algorithms, disruption of data integrity, and destabilization of critical system operations. The methodological foundation of this study is based on the analysis of 318 sources from international databases such as Scopus and Web of Science. From this body of literature, 24 publications most relevant to the topic were selected. A comparative method was employed to analyze classical and quantum threats. The aim of the study is to examine the impact of quantum attacks on the security of critical information infrastructure (CII) at the current level and propose pathways for transitioning to quantum-resilient solutions. The results emphasize the necessity of implementing innovative cryptographic approaches, such as lattice-based and code-based algorithms, as well as combined (hybrid) technologies. Successful protection of the infrastructure requires a systematic approach, including a comprehensive audit of existing systems, training of specialists, and the removal of technical and regulatory barriers. The developed step-by-step plan minimizes risks and establishes a foundation for the secure implementation of new standards.
The emergence of quantum computing is set to reshape the landscape of cybersecurity, presenting a blend of significant challenges and groundbreaking opportunities. This paper delves into the growing risks tied to quantum technologies, with a particular focus on post-quantum cryptography (PQC) and the threats posed by the possible obsolescence of traditional cryptographic methods. As quantum computing capabilities advance at a rapid pace, the need for the development of quantum-resistant security protocols has become more urgent than ever. This research investigates the vulnerabilities of current cryptographic systems, the potential dangers posed by quantum computing, and the solutions already available in the field of post-quantum cryptography. Furthermore, the paper outlines a comprehensive framework for cybersecurity solutions that are resilient to future quantum threats, emphasizing the importance of collaboration across academic, industrial, and governmental sectors. By reviewing current literature and technological developments, this paper provides a roadmap for transitioning to quantum-safe security practices, addressing the risks brought on by quantum advancements, and ensuring that critical infrastructure is well-defended against quantum-driven attacks. The findings indicate that while quantum computing introduces profound risks to traditional cybersecurity systems, a proactive, strategic adoption of PQC solutions can effectively protect vital infrastructure in the post-quantum age.
As quantum computers advance, they will fundamentally change the ways the information systems that currently secure communications, financial systems, healthcare records, government databases and critical infrastructure are protected. Although quantum technologies offer great promise for future scientific endeavors and processing power, they also present new dangers for cybersecurity. This paper explores the threats that are emerging as a result of Quantum Computing, focusing on the vulnerability of popular public-key cryptographic methods like RSA, Diffie–Hellman and Elliptic Curve Cryptography. The study also delves into the consequences of "harvest now, decrypt later": Information encrypted today could be made available when sufficiently strong quantum computers are ready. The research adopts a qualitative approach with a thorough literature survey of scholarly works on quantum-safe security standards, international cybersecurity frameworks, and recent advancements in the field. It evaluates the readiness of organizations, governments and technology vendors to deal with the changing threats of quantum computing. The study also highlights emerging counter measures, such as post quantum cryptography, quantum key distribution, cryptographic agility, zero trust security architectures, and risk-based migration strategies to build long-term cyber resilience. The results indicate that while large-scale quantum computers are still being developed which could compromise current encryption systems, it is important to plan ahead and implement quantum-resistant technologies to mitigate future security risks. To achieve quantum-safe cybersecurity, a concerted effort is needed, involving a collaboration between policymakers, researchers, industry players and standardization organizations, to provide secure digital ecosystems. In the end, the paper argues that a blend of quantum-resistant cryptographic solutions and adaptive cybersecurity governance and continuous innovation will be a critical enabler in protecting information assets in the quantum era. The study will contribute to the existing body of work on quantum cybersecurity and provide insights into the challenges and opportunities of creating secure and future-proof cybersecurity systems.
The advent of quantum computing marks a transformative era in cybersecurity, challenging traditional cryptographic frameworks and broadening the horizons of computational capabilities. This paper navigates the transition to a quantum-resistant security framework, offering a critical analysis of encryption methods essential for the protection of critical infrastructure and cloud services in the quantum era. It meticulously evaluates the effects of quantum computing across various infrastructure layers, including applications, data, runtime, middleware, operating systems, virtualization, hardware, storage, and networks. Through a nuanced exploration of potential vulnerabilities and the evolving threat landscape conferred by quantum technologies, our study delivers strategic insights for the development of effective countermeasures. Our comprehensive inquiry underscores the pivotal shift necessitated by the disruptive potential of quantum computing, advocating for preemptive and inventive security strategies. It calls for concerted, multi-sectoral collaboration to cultivate resilient, quantum-resistant cryptographic practices. Through meticulous research, we articulate the emergent threat vectors posed by quantum technologies and evaluate post-quantum cryptographic solutions, laying the groundwork for safeguarding both current and prospective infrastructural and cloud ecosystems. Significantly, this study introduces a tailored security blueprint encompassing nine critical infrastructure components, reinforcing each domain’s defenses against quantum-induced cyber threats. Our strategic vulnerability assessment provide essential countermeasures, equipping stakeholders with the ability to navigate the complex, quantum-threatened landscape. These contributions are integral for those tasked with critical infrastructure stewardship, influencing design, implementation, and policy formulation. In essence, this paper not only forecasts quantum threats but also offers a sophisticated, actionable framework for strengthening infrastructure and cloud environments against the multifaceted challenges of the quantum era.
The advent of quantum computing represents a transformative leap in computational power, offering the potential to solve complex problems beyond the reach of classical computers. However, this power also presents significant cybersecurity risks, as quantum algorithms can potentially break widely used encryption methods, jeopardizing data privacy and secure communications. This paper presents a comprehensive review of emerging quantum-related cybersecurity threats and explores defense mechanisms designed to mitigate these risks. We examine both theoretical and real-world implications of quantum computing on cryptographic systems, highlighting recent developments in post-quantum cryptography, Quantum Key Distribution (QKD), and hybrid classical-quantum security solutions. This review aims to provide a foundational understanding of the threats quantum computing poses to cybersecurity and discusses current and future defenses essential for safeguarding digital infrastructure.