IGF 2025 Launch / Award Event #169 Report presentation: Quantum computing, a blessing or havoc?

The emergence of quantum computing presents both unprecedented opportunity and significant risk for modern society. While breakthroughs continue to accelerate its development, history offers crucial lessons from our experience with Information and Communication Technologies over the past four decades, particularly regarding security challenges. As quantum computing moves from theory to reality, it's imperative that scientists, policymakers, regulators, technical experts, and industry leaders prioritize cybersecurity at every stage of development. The first generation of quantum products must be designed with security as a fundamental principle, ensuring this powerful technology serves society rather than threatening it. The window for establishing proper safeguards exists now, and failing to seize this opportunity could have devastating consequences for both individuals and societies. This critical challenge is currently being investigated by IS3C and AFNIC researchers. In this launch event AFNIC and DC-Internet Standards, Security and Safety (IS3C) launch their report ‘Quantum computing, a blessing or havoc?’. The research project studies the potential impact of quantum computing on societies, with a focus on the security of the ubiquitous IoT devices in societies. As the research for the report is currently undertaken, it is impossible to share the outcomes or a link to the report in this application. The first draft is expected around April 1. At the launch of the report the stakeholders will present their conclusions and recommendations on topics such as: IoT security encompassing assessment and vulnerability management, privacy and trust implications, and PQC policy frameworks across US and EU jurisdictions. This research is currently undertaken, so we cannot present outcomes in this proposal. In the report that we present today, the researchers will provide (policy) recommendations for stakeholders in industry, policymaking, technical community, consumer organisations and academia.

This is primarily the presentation of a report, but we will also add an online interactive tool that will collect the views and comments of the attendees. We will make sure to take a few questions. The two moderators will share equally between the room and virtual room.