Securing the quantum era.

First, encrypted data captured today may be stored and decrypted once quantum computers become powerful enough — a risk known as harvest now, decrypt later.

Second, research, intellectual property, and sensitive innovations in quantum science must be protected against a broad range of adversaries, including state and non-state actors.

Encryption must evolve to outlast tomorrow's quantum capabilities. Traditional public-key algorithms — such as RSA and ECC — are vulnerable to quantum attacks; replacing them with quantum-resistant alternatives is central to future security.

NSA and partners encourage the adoption of post-quantum cryptography (PQC) — algorithms designed to resist quantum attacks — because they can be deployed on existing systems and have a well-understood risk profile compared to specialized quantum hardware solutions.

Quantum science must be protected from theft and exploitation. The FBI leads coordinated efforts with interagency partners to safeguard research, development, and commercialization of quantum technologies — including outreach to government labs, private companies, and academic institutions to help identify suspicious activity and counter attempts by foreign intelligence services or malicious actors to steal or exploit sensitive work.

Threats can come in many forms — not only from traditional espionage but through complex economic, academic, and supply-chain influence efforts. Security approaches therefore blend operational vigilance, workforce awareness, and institutional safeguards.