G7 Urges Action on Quantum Threat to Cybersecurity

The G7 is calling for immediate preparation against quantum-enabled cyberattacks, highlighting that sensitive data is already at risk and migration to secure systems could take years. A report from the G7 cybersecurity working group identifies quantum computing as a significant security and economic threat to both public and private organizations. The group emphasizes the need for organizations to adopt post-quantum cryptography (PQC) to defend against both classical and quantum attacks, warning that data currently stored could be decrypted by future quantum computers. The report notes that transitioning to PQC requires coordinated efforts across sectors. While not directly mentioning cryptocurrency, the report highlights that public-key cryptography, which protects blockchain wallets and transactions, is at risk. Current quantum computers cannot break Bitcoin's cryptography, but developers are exploring post-quantum proposals like BIP-360. Bitcoin's governance complicates transitions, requiring broad support for major security changes. Ethereum researchers are also planning updates to cryptographic components, while Solana may have an easier path due to its use of EdDSA signatures. The G7 urges governments to support research and public-private partnerships in developing national PQC strategies and to incorporate quantum security into procurement processes.