In a previous blog article, we explored the cyber strategy known as “harvest now, decrypt later.” Currently, nation-states are actively collecting encrypted data from governments and businesses worldwide. Their objective is to gather this information and store it with the expectation that future advances in technology will eventually allow them to decrypt it. This creates a potential quantum decryption threat that could compromise decades of sensitive information.

Quantum computing is the technology poised to make that possible. Unlike traditional machines, quantum computers utilize the principles of quantum mechanics to process information at speeds that are impossible with conventional computing. Once quantum computers become powerful enough, they will be able to crack widely used encryption protocols in a matter of minutes. Any organization or country with access to a functioning quantum computer will be able to quietly unlock previously secure data, making a robust data encryption strategy essential to long-term protection.    

The good news is that the threat is serious but manageable. Solutions like post-quantum cryptography (PQC) are being developed to defend against future attacks and ensure quantum-safe security for sensitive data. There is no overnight fix, but there are four important steps IT and security leaders can take to prepare. Let’s explore.

Step 1: Educate Leadership and Build Awareness

Before your teams can act, leadership must understand the stakes. Quantum decryption threats are not a science fiction scenario. They are real threats that experts believe could emerge within five to ten years, if not sooner. In fact, the danger is already beginning to take shape. Malicious actors are collecting data today with the intention of breaking its encryption in the future.

For executives, this makes quantum a strategic issue that affects long-term security planning, enterprise architecture, and regulatory readiness. Agencies such as NIST have already finalized new encryption standards in anticipation of this shift, highlighting the need for a forward-looking data encryption strategy Boards, compliance officers, and IT governance leaders should be briefed so they can account for quantum preparedness in risk planning.

Organizations that delay action until the threat is obvious may find themselves out of step with emerging compliance expectations and at risk of falling behind in vendor readiness.

Step 2: Classify Your Data and Encryption Methods

Data is no longer stored in one central location. It lives across cloud environments, SaaS platforms, endpoints, backup archives and more. The first step toward defending against quantum decryption threats is understanding where your most valuable data resides and how it is currently protected.

Begin by identifying which data must remain confidential for extended periods of time. That could include:

• Medical records subject to long-term compliance requirements
• Legal documents and intellectual property in regulated industries
• Financial transaction logs or proprietary business plans

Next, review how this data is encrypted. Asymmetric encryption protocols such as RSA, Diffie-Hellman, and elliptic curve cryptography are especially vulnerable to quantum attacks. These algorithms are used in many systems, including authentication mechanisms, VPNs, application communications, and data transmission protocols. A proactive data encryption strategy can help organizations identify where these weaknesses exist and prioritize remediation.

A significant challenge is that encryption methods are not always visible. As highlighted in my recent podcast with Pulsar Security, many organizations rely on software that contains cryptographic dependencies buried in open-source libraries, firmware, or vendor-provided modules. To uncover these hidden risks, utilize software bill of materials (SBOMs), conduct passive traffic analysis, and consult with internal or external security architects who understand post-quantum cryptography (PQC) principles.    

The combination of data classification and encryption discovery creates a foundation for all future quantum readiness work.

Step 3: Build a Quantum-Ready Roadmap

Once you understand where your risks are, the next step is to develop a plan that reduces your exposure over time. This roadmap should focus on two key areas to minimize the potential impact of a quantum decryption threat.    

1. Transition to Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC)

NIST has selected several algorithms that are designed to resist quantum-based attacks. These include Kyber for key exchanges and Dilithium for digital signatures. These algorithms are designed to run on classical computers and offer stronger protection against quantum capabilities.

Now is the time to begin testing and evaluating these algorithms in your environment. Consider performance impacts, compatibility with existing platforms, and integration requirements. Some industries are likely to make quantum-safe encryption mandatory, so early testing now may reduce compliance friction later.

2. Explore Quantum Key Distribution (QKD)

QKD enables the transmission of encryption keys in a manner that reveals any interception attempt. Although this technology is promising, it currently requires significant investment and specialized infrastructure. Most organizations will find PQC to be the more practical option in the short term.

As discussed in the podcast, adopting these technologies will take time. It will not be a single update or an overnight migration. The organizations that begin preparing today will be positioned for stronger quantum-safe security when quantum computing becomes a real-world threat.    

Step 4: Evaluate and Engage with Your Vendors

No IT leader can achieve quantum safety alone. Every enterprise relies on external vendors and service providers, which means their level of preparedness will affect your overall security posture.

Ask your vendors the following questions:

• Have you adopted or started piloting NIST-approved post-quantum encryption algorithms?
• Can you share a detailed SBOM that includes cryptographic dependencies?
• What is your projected timeline for PQC support across your product or service portfolio?
• Have you tested Kyber, Dilithium, or other relevant algorithms for compatibility?

As noted in our podcast, many vendors have yet to fully assess their own quantum readiness. That creates business risk. Procurement teams, architecture review boards, and security leaders should begin incorporating these criteria into renewal conversations and RFP processes to ensure a comprehensive approach to security.

Quantum Decryption Is a Future Threat That Requires Present-Day Planning

Encryption will not vanish. It will evolve. The Quantum decryption threat will emerge gradually, without warning. Quantum computers are unlikely to arrive with a public countdown clock. Their impact will be felt quietly at first, as adversaries begin to unlock previously stolen data.

The most prepared organizations will be the ones that take action before headlines appear. If your strategy depends on traditional encryption, your window to assess and adapt is already open. Building toward quantum-safe security now ensures your data and systems remain protected as technology advances.

Let WEI help you begin this journey. Contact us today to schedule a post-quantum security assessment with our team of experts.

Next Steps: Now is the time to begin preparing, and WEI can help. Download our free tech brief, The Coming Quantum Storm: How To Safeguard Your Enterprise Data, to get started and contact our expert cyber team for questions. We leverage our proven partnerships with world-leading post-quantum encryption providers, specific to your tech stack.