Quantum of risk

The quantum computing threat to data encryption methods means companies are developing “quantum-safe” strategies, but only 30% have taken a critical first step, a report found.
The first IBM Quantum System Two in Europe, located at the IBM-Euskadi Quantum Computational Center in San Sebastián, Spain, was unveiled on 14 October 2025.
The first IBM Quantum System Two in Europe, located at the IBM-Euskadi Quantum Computational Center in San Sebastián, Spain, was unveiled on 14 October 2025. (Photo courtesy of IBM.)

From its research beginnings to real-world application, quantum computing is making a shift with profound implications for business and data security.

Quantum has potential to break encryption methods used today that help ensure transmitted or stored data stays confidential and unchanged.

That potential is understood by bad actors who are adopting a “harvest now, decrypt later” approach to data theft.

In response, 73% of large organisations (with at least $250 million annual revenue) surveyed by IBM for a 2025 report are working on their “quantum-safe” strategy. However, only 30% have already created an inventory of applications, data, and services to understand how cryptography is implemented across the organisation — which is a critical first practical step.

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