Cyberthreats in a Quantum Computing-Enabled World - A Study of New Zealand’s Role and Readiness

Abstract

Quantum computing has the potential to impact geopolitical power balances, global economic stability, and national security. The exponentially increased power of a fault-tolerant large-scale quantum computer will threaten the security of existing cryptographic mechanisms that underpin safe online activity. Therefore, it is imperative that nations prepare for this emerging cyber risk. However, no literature currently describes how prepared New Zealand is to face quantum computing-enabled cyber threats.

This research aims to close this knowledge gap by investigating how prepared critical New Zealand organisations are to face quantum computing-enabled threats. It also explores the role the New Zealand Government should play in forming global policy on quantum technology’s ethical and cybersecurity implications. Finally, this research aims to clarify the factors that will influence New Zealand’s cybersecurity preparedness in a quantum-enabled landscape.

This qualitative study was undertaken through a lens of classical pragmatism. An interview method derived findings that reflected the lived experience of New Zealand cybersecurity and technology policy professionals and uncovered insufficient organisational preparation to address emerging quantum computing-enabled cyber threats. Document analysis found a growing global emphasis on developing quantum technology to ensure national sovereignty and security and highlighted the New Zealand Government’s need to promote international collaboration in quantum technology.

The research describes global, national, and organisational readiness factors that may impact New Zealand’s cybersecurity preparedness and provide actionable knowledge to prepare New Zealand for a quantum computing-enabled world.