Chinese researchers have reportedly achieved what they are calling the first successful quantum attack on widely utilized encryption algorithms, as detailed in a report from the South China Morning Post (SCMP).
The research team, led by Wang Chao at Shanghai University, employed a D-Wave quantum computer to penetrate cryptographic protocols, raising alarms about the security of essential sectors like banking and military operations.
Published on September 30 in the Chinese Journal of Computers, the study showcases a notable advancement in the field of quantum computing.
Utilizing the D-Wave Advantage machine—which was originally intended for practical tasks such as logistics—the researchers focused on attacking algorithms based on the Substitution-Permutation Network (SPN) architecture. This type of algorithm is fundamental to encryption standards in widespread use, including AES-256, which is regarded as the benchmark for secure communication in military and financial contexts.
According to Wang’s team, this marks the first instance where a genuine quantum computer has demonstrated the potential to significantly threaten full-scale SPN algorithms currently in practice. Although they did not break any specific passcodes, the researchers caution that quantum computers could soon begin to challenge existing encryption methods.
Quantum computers operate on principles that differ significantly from those of traditional computers; they leverage quantum annealing and tunneling to tackle intricate problems more effectively.
The research team blended these quantum techniques with traditional mathematical approaches to create a new computational method capable of undermining SPN algorithms such as Present, Gift-64, and Rectangle, as reported by the SCMP.
Nevertheless, the researchers recognize the current limitations of quantum computing, which include immature hardware and environmental factors that interfere with performance, ultimately restricting the technology’s capabilities at this stage.
Wang refrained from providing additional comments on the research due to its sensitive nature.
While contemporary encryption systems remain secure for the time being, experts are closely monitoring the swift advancements in quantum computing, which could expose new vulnerabilities in the future. Wang’s team has indicated that while there hasn’t been an immediate compromise, the rapidly evolving technology suggests that future quantum systems might pose substantial risks to existing encryption standards.
