Citation:
C. Gariazzo, A. Poczatek, S. Martinson, and D. Farley, “Quantum Information Science And Its Implications For International Safeguards”, INMM and ESARDA Joint Annual Meeting, Virtual Meeting, August 23 – September 1, 2021.
Abstract:
Despite the potential benefits for a myriad of industries, quantum technologies (such as quantum computers and associated quantum algorithms) pose concerns for some in their ability to break currently used encryption protocols – an essential aspect of conducting day-to-day business. This presentation summarizes results from a study conducted by researchers at Argonne National Laboratory and Sandia National Laboratories that considers the advent of quantum technologies and the potential impact of this nascent technology to the international safeguards regime. Herein, we provide a background on the various quantum technologies being developed, including not only quantum computing, but also quantum sensing and simulation, as well as quantum encryption. Furthermore, we assessed quantum computing’s ability to break generally used encryption standards, especially those prescribed today for IAEA instrumentation and communications, by detailing every data security prescription as published by the IAEA and assessed the overall and specific needs for the IAEA in a post-quantum era. The report also conveys specific near-term recommendations for the international safeguards community to address cyber vulnerabilities of historical, current, and future data in a quantum world.