Breaking Code in the Quantum Era: An Introduction to Quantum Cryptanalysis

The rise of quantum computing presents a significant challenge to modern cryptographic security. Encryption methods once deemed secure are now at risk due to powerful quantum algorithms like Shor’s and Grover’s, which can rapidly solve problems that classical computers struggle with, such as factoring large numbers and searching vast datasets. This talk introduces quantum cryptanalysis, examining how quantum advancements compromise widely used cryptographic systems, the computational resources needed to break them, and the development of post-quantum cryptography (PQC) as a defense. We will explore real-world consequences, ongoing research efforts, and the strategies required to safeguard digital infrastructure against quantum threats. Presenter: Mahima Mary Mathews, Ph.D. is a Research Scholar in Quantum-safe Cryptography and Quantum Communication at IIIT Kottayam.