Chinese researchers have reportedly achieved what they claim to be the first quantum attack on widely used encryption algorithms, as reported by the South China Morning Post (SCMP).
Led by Wang Chao from Shanghai University, the team utilized a D-Wave quantum computer to breach cryptographic protocols, raising alarms about the security of critical sectors such as banking and military.
The study, published in the Chinese Journal of Computers on September 30, demonstrates a significant advancement in quantum computing capabilities. The researchers employed the D-Wave Advantage machine, which was initially designed for practical applications like logistics, to target algorithms based on the Substitution-Permutation Network (SPN) structure.
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SPN algorithms are foundational to commonly used encryption standards, including AES-256, regarded as the gold standard for military and financial security. Wang’s team claims this is the first instance where a real quantum computer has posed a meaningful threat to full-scale SPN-structured algorithms currently in use. Although specific passcodes were not cracked, the researchers caution that quantum computers could soon undermine modern encryption systems.
Quantum computers operate on principles that differ significantly from classical computers, utilizing quantum annealing and tunneling to tackle complex problems more efficiently. Wang’s team combined these quantum techniques with traditional mathematical methods to create a novel computational approach capable of breaching SPN algorithms such as Present, Gift-64, and Rectangle.
Despite this breakthrough, the researchers recognize the limitations of quantum computing, including hardware immaturity and environmental interference, which currently impede the technology’s full potential. Wang declined to comment further on the research due to its sensitive nature.
While current cryptographic systems remain secure for the time being, experts are closely monitoring the rapid advancements in quantum computing, which may soon reveal new vulnerabilities. Wang’s team noted that while no immediate breaches have been achieved, the evolving technology indicates that future quantum systems could significantly threaten existing encryption standards.
