The agreement between both companies aims to anticipate the cryptographic risks posed by future quantum computing, safeguarding the critical data of organizations.
Telefónica Tech, the digital services subsidiary of Telefónica, has signed a collaboration agreement with IBM to integrate the American multinational’s ‘quantum safe’ technology into its cybersecurityCybersecurity solutions are essential in today’s era. services. This agreement, announced via their corporate website, aims to anticipate risks associated with the advancement of quantum computing, a technology that, while not yet a real cryptographic threat, could compromise data security in the future.
Quantum computing, which promises to revolutionize information processing, also poses a challenge to current cybersecurity. Traditional encryption algorithms, which protect the privacy and integrity of data, could become vulnerable to the power of future quantum computers. Additionally, cybercriminals might be gathering data now to decrypt later, a strategy known as “harvest now, decrypt later.”
Infrastructure and Joint Development
The agreement between Telefónica Tech and IBM includes the deployment of the technological infrastructure of the American company at the Madrid headquarters of the Spanish subsidiary. Both companies will work together to combine IBM’s ‘quantum safe’ technology with Telefónica Tech’s expertise in cybersecurity, developing innovative solutions that protect organizations’ critical data from vulnerabilities arising from quantum computing.
These solutions will be based on the new post-quantum cryptography standards defined by the U.S. National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). IBM has actively participated in the development of two of the three algorithms published by NIST as post-quantum cryptography standards, reinforcing its position as a leader in this emerging field.
Preparing for the Quantum Era
Although quantum computing is not yet a massive reality, its potential to compromise current security systems has led companies and governments to take preventive measures. With this agreement, Telefónica Tech positions itself at the forefront of cybersecurity in the quantum era, offering its customers solutions that ensure the protection of their data even against future technological threats.
This agreement also strengthens the strategic alliance between Telefónica and IBM, two tech giants with a long history of collaboration. For Telefónica Tech, this step represents a milestone in its innovation strategy, consolidating its leadership in the development of advanced cybersecurity solutions.
A Secure Future in the Quantum Era
The integration of IBM’s ‘quantum safe’ technology into Telefónica Tech’s services not only addresses future challenges but also demonstrates both companies’ commitment to security and data privacy in an increasingly digitized world.
With this agreement, Telefónica Tech not only anticipates the risks of quantum computing, but also sets a standard of protection that could shape the future of cybersecurity for decades to come.