Cyber Security Awareness Month 2025: Quantum Readiness

As Cyber Security Awareness Month comes to a close, the Australian Cyber Security Centre (ACSC) is turning its attention to the future and the growing impact that quantum computing will have on cyber security.¹

Quantum computing represents one of the most transformative technological leaps in decades. By harnessing the principles of quantum mechanics, these computers can perform calculations far faster than today’s systems. This power has enormous potential for innovation in healthcare, finance, and data science, but it also introduces a new challenge for cyber security.

Week 4 focuses on quantum readiness – preparing now for a world where current encryption standards may no longer be secure.¹

Encryption underpins almost every aspect of digital life. It safeguards financial transactions, protects personal and government data, and secures communications across global networks. The algorithms that make this possible, such as RSA and ECC, could eventually be broken once quantum computers reach sufficient scale and stability.¹

The ACSC highlights that the transition to post-quantum cryptography (PQC) will take years of planning, testing, and coordination across industries.¹ Organisations cannot afford to wait until quantum computers are commercially available; preparation must begin now.

One major concern is the “harvest now, decrypt later” threat. In this scenario, attackers collect and store encrypted data today with the intent of decrypting it once quantum technology matures. Sensitive records such as intellectual property, classified information, and personal data could all be exposed in the future if encryption is not updated in time.

To build quantum readiness, organisations should take a structured approach that includes:

• Identifying dependencies: Audit where encryption is used across systems, devices, and communications.
• Classifying data sensitivity: Determine which information must remain secure for long periods, such as health or government data.
• Developing a transition roadmap: Plan for gradual migration to quantum-resistant algorithms once standards are finalised.
• Engaging technology partners: Ensure vendors and suppliers are preparing for PQC and align with your long-term strategy.
• Investing in resilience: Strengthen key management, authentication, and access controls during the transition period.

At FUJIFILM IT Services, we help organisations assess encryption dependencies, evaluate risk, and plan for long-term protection. Our consultants work alongside clients to design practical roadmaps that enhance resilience and prepare for the next wave of technological change.

Quantum readiness is not about predicting when quantum computers will arrive; it is about being prepared before they do. Acting early helps protect valuable data, maintain compliance, and secure the foundations for future growth.

As Cyber Security Awareness Month 2025 concludes, the message is clear: cyber resilience must evolve alongside technology. The organisations that start preparing now will be the ones best equipped to secure tomorrow.

¹ Australian Cyber Security Centre (2025) Cyber Security Awareness Month. Australian Government. Available at: https://www.cyber.gov.au/business-government/cyber-security-awareness-month (Accessed: 2 October 2025).