Quantum Computer Not Ready To Break Public Key Encryption For At Least 10 Years, Some Experts Say

physburn writes: The Register has spoken to some experts to get a better understanding of the risk quantum computers present to the existing encryption systems we have today. Richard Evers, cryptographer for a Canadian security biz called Kryptera, argues that media coverage and corporate pronouncements about quantum computing have left people with the impression that current encryption algorithms will soon become obsolete. But they will not be ready for at least 10 years, he said. As an example, Evers points to remarks made by Arvind Krishna, director of IBM research, at The Churchill Club in San Francisco last May, that those interested in protecting data for at least ten years 'should probably seriously consider whether they should start moving to alternate encryption techniques now.' In a post Evers penned recently with his business partner Alastair Sweeny, he contends, 'The hard truth is that widespread beliefs about security and encryption may prove to be based on fantasy rather than fact.' And the reason for this, he suggests, is the desire for funding and fame.

Read more of this story at Slashdot.