Vodafone UK Tests IBM Quantum Safe Tech for Internet Security

Customers of Vodafone UK’s mobile and broadband services, specifically those that also use their internet anti-malware ‘Secure Net‘ service (included with their ‘Pro II Broadband’ packages), may in the near future be able to benefit from quantum-safe cryptography after the operator collaborated with IBM on a new Proof of Concept (PoC) test.

At present, Quantum Computers are still very much in the early R&D stages of their development. But it is anticipated that, someday, future cryptographically relevant quantum computers could be used to break today’s internet encryption techniques. While this risk may still be years away, cybercriminals are already using “harvest now, decrypt later” attacks to collect and store data for later decryption.

In response, IBM’s cryptography researchers have already co-developed two algorithms, which were recently published as part of the U.S. National Institute of Standards and Technology’s (NIST) first three post-quantum cryptography standards.

The new collaboration with Vodafone thus represents a demonstration, supported by Akamai Technologies, of how IBM’s new Quantum Safe technology could be implemented into Vodafone’s existing Secure Net service. This would essentially add new post-quantum cryptography standards to the existing encryption methods, helping to protect users against future threats.

Luke Ibbetson, Head of R&D at Vodafone, said:

“We want our customers to enjoy the internet without worry, now and in the future. On the one hand quantum computing could have many societal benefits such as modelling new medicines and optimising advanced digital networks. But on the other hand, it could be used to undermine the cryptographic principles that the Internet relies on today. That is why Vodafone and IBM are working together with other partners to get ahead of the curve.”

Lory Thorpe, IBM’s Quantum Safe Industry Lead, added:

“As a pioneer in quantum-safe cryptography and solutions, IBM is proud to expand our collaboration with Vodafone to help protect its customers from anticipated quantum risks. It’s crucial for organisations to implement4 post-quantum cryptography, and Vodafone has led by example as an early adopter of post-quantum security solutions.”

The PoC is currently being expressed as a “feasibility test” and no indication is given for how long we might have to wait before this becomes a real feature that existing mobile and broadband customers can enjoy. But Vodafone clearly states that they’re “looking to introduce new, attack-resistant cryptographic algorithms across its networks, as well as business and consumer products“. So hopefully it won’t be long.