The development of quantum computing has introduced new significant challenges for global digital security. Currently, cybercriminals have the ability to capture and store confidential data protected by traditional methods, keeping it with the intention of decrypting it later when more advanced technologies become available.
This invasion methodology is termed by experts as 'harvest now, decrypt later.' In practice, the attack does not need to cause immediate damage to pose a major risk; the stolen information remains on hackers' servers until extremely powerful computers can break the current protection codes.
The core of the problem lies in data that retains strategic value over long periods, such as financial records, scientific research, industrial projects, government secrets, and sensitive personal data. If intercepted now, this content could be accessed by criminals ten years from now.
Authorities show great apprehension regarding the processing power of quantum machines. Unlike conventional computers, these devices use principles of quantum physics to execute enormous volumes of calculations in mere seconds, easily surpassing current security barriers.
Experts' View on Cryptography
Arthur Igreja, a specialist in Technology and Innovation, commented in an interview with Olhar Digital that cryptography transcends a mere technical tool, constituting the basis of all modern navigation and e-commerce. According to him, the loss of this protection would compromise the operability of the internet as we know it, as cryptography is a fundamental and essential pillar for daily functioning.
Igreja made an analogy between the current scenario and a highly fortified physical location whose doors could be opened with relative ease by invaders in the future. He exemplified this by comparing it to a high-security safe: if a future technology allows the lock to be opened effortlessly, all investment made in present protection would be invalidated.
The impact of this vulnerability ranges from private conversations to vast digital financial management systems. Igreja also warned that decentralized networks and digital currencies are at risk from this new technological revolution, which could lead to a chaotic scenario with the breakdown of these structures.
Due to this landscape, the backrooms of the technology sector are intensifying their defensive strategies. Igreja emphasized that the world of technology is in a race against time, where current strength can suddenly become an exposed fragility.
In this context, experts advocate for the urgent adoption of post-quantum cryptography. This new model generates extremely complex mathematical algorithms designed to resist attacks from both traditional computers and future quantum supercomputers. The migration must occur before the quantum threat solidifies, avoiding a desperate race to replace security systems after attackers already possess the technology.
Government Preparation in Brazil
In Brazil, the federal government has begun preparations to modernize its digital infrastructure and safeguard its strategic communications. The Private Communication Network of the Federal Public Administration, outlined in the 5G auction notice, is being implemented by the Band Administrator Entity (EAF).
EAF is the organization responsible for supporting digital inclusion and telecommunications infrastructure projects in the country, working in collaboration with the Ministry of Communications and the National Telecommunications Agency (Anatel), using its own high-performance fiber optic network.
Gina Marques, president of EAF, used a simple comparison to explain the strategic logic: the invader steals the data and stores it in a safe, waiting for technology to evolve to crack the encryption password.
The entity's concern is justified by the type of information circulating on the Brazilian State's networks. Official documents and confidential government data require legal protection for very long periods, potentially exceeding decades. Gina Marques explained that it is necessary to protect information not only for the present but also for the future, in case computers are capable of cracking the password.
Consequently, the architecture of the Private Communication Network was conceived from the beginning to meet new international security standards. Post-quantum protection was incorporated into the initial phases of the government project, aiming to ensure that sensitive government data is not discovered later.
The absence of timely updates puts vital sectors at risk, such as electrical grids, banking systems, health services, and public transport. A successful attack in these strategic environments would directly affect the routine and safety of millions of citizens.
In addition to the public sector, private corporations with international operations face rigorous cybersecurity demands. Those that anticipate the guidelines of the quantum era will gain a competitive advantage in the global market and avoid serious future operational losses.
Changing the security architecture of digital systems is not a quick or simple process, requiring meticulous planning, detailed data inventory, and continuous investment in new technologies. Governments and companies must identify which information requires long-term protection to apply new shielding tools before it is too late, anticipating who will try to access it in the coming decades.