2024 Data Breach Reports

The number of data breaches continues to rise, with significant incidents reported in early 2024. Notably, the Europol action in December 2023 affected 443 organisations, and the MOAB incident in January 2024 impacted 3,876 organisations. Cloud breaches have increased by 75%, with adversaries leveraging legitimate credentials to infiltrate cloud environments, making it challenging to detect malicious activity.

https://www.crowdstrike.com/global-threat-report


Quantum Computing in Cyber Security

Recent advancements in quantum computing have significant implications for cybersecurity, with developments that could both enhance and challenge existing security paradigms

Shor’s Algorithm A quantum algorithm capable of efficiently factoring large integers, poses a threat to widely used cryptographic systems like RSA and ECC. If large-scale quantum computers become operational, they could decrypt data protected by these systems rapidly, necessitating a transition to quantum-resistant algorithms.

Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) This technology uses quantum mechanics to securely distribute cryptographic keys, ensuring that any eavesdropping attempt is detectable. QKD, especially with advances like QKD-on-a-chip and satellite QKD, could provide secure communication channels impervious to quantum attacks.

https://www.omexsecurity.com/quantum-computing-cybersecurity-2024/

https://www.securityweek.com/cyber-insights-2024-quantum-and-the-cryptopocalypse/


Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC):

PQC involves developing cryptographic algorithms that are secure against both classical and quantum attacks. The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) is leading efforts to standardise these algorithms, focusing on lattice-based, hash-based, and code-based cryptographic methods. Prominent algorithms in this area include CRYSTALS-KYBER, CRYSTALS-Dilithium, and SPHINCS+

https://thequantuminsider.com/2024/03/13/quantum-cybersecurity-explained-comprehensive-guide

  1. Research and Development:
  • Companies and research institutions are heavily investing in PQC and quantum-safe technologies. IBM has highlighted the urgency of transitioning to quantum-resistant protocols, estimating a 10-year timeframe for full implementation. This is crucial as quantum computers capable of breaking current encryption standards are expected within the next decade【14†source】.
  • Innovations in quantum hardware and software, such as the use of application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs) for enhanced computation, are also being explored to address these emerging threats【16†source】.
  1. Industry Implications:
  • Financial institutions, healthcare providers, and government agencies are among the sectors that need to prioritise the adoption of quantum-resistant cryptographic solutions to protect sensitive data. The move towards PQC is essential to mitigate risks posed by future quantum computing advancements【17†source】.

Overall, the shift towards quantum-resistant cryptography and the development of new security protocols are critical steps in preparing for the quantum era. Staying informed about these advancements and beginning early implementation will be key to safeguarding digital assets against emerging threats.