The Chicago region, a burgeoning hub for quantum technology innovation in the US, is pioneering efforts to safeguard its quantum assets from potential threats. Recent cases of intellectual property theft in the tech industry highlight the vulnerabilities that quantum tech developers may face. In response, the FBI’s Chicago office and the Chicago Quantum Exchange-led Bloch Quantum Tech Hub have partnered to proactively address these risks. This collaboration aims to establish a national model for cooperation between the quantum ecosystem and government agencies responsible for national security.
Building Bridges Between Quantum Developers and Law Enforcement
Last month, a groundbreaking symposium held at Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory in Batavia, Illinois, brought together stakeholders from industry, government, and academia. This first-of-its-kind event, titled “Securing Our Quantum Assets,” focused on identifying potential threats, sharing information on existing security measures, and fostering trust and open communication channels between law enforcement and quantum technology developers. The goal is to proactively mitigate risks before they escalate into significant security breaches.
Executive Assistant Director Ryan T. Young of the FBI’s Intelligence Branch emphasized the importance of protecting American intellectual property and sensitive technologies from adversaries. He underscored the FBI’s commitment to collaborating with partners across various sectors to safeguard quantum information science and technologies, recognizing their potential for revolutionary advancements.
The Bloch Quantum Tech Hub: A Focal Point for Risk Mitigation
The Bloch Quantum Tech Hub, vying for significant funding from the US Economic Development Administration, plans to appoint a dedicated risk mitigation leader. This individual will serve as a central point of contact for security concerns, planning, and collaboration with the FBI and the intelligence community. Additionally, the Hub will develop security resources tailored specifically to the Chicago quantum ecosystem. CQE CEO Kate Timmerman highlighted the importance of this initiative in building connections between quantum experts, including startups, and the national security community.
Proactive Collaboration: A Key to Long-Term Security
The “Securing Our Quantum Assets” symposium marks the beginning of what is intended to become an annual gathering, fostering ongoing dialogue and collaboration. Participants acknowledged the inherent paradox of innovation in the 21st century: international collaboration accelerates progress but can also create vulnerabilities. Timmerman stressed the importance of establishing necessary communication channels early on, before major threats materialize. The Bloch Tech Hub plans to continue hosting forums that bring together diverse stakeholders to address security risks as the quantum ecosystem expands.
Addressing the Quantum Threat to Cryptography
Experts at the symposium highlighted the unique security challenges posed by quantum computers, which are anticipated to achieve practical application within the next decade. A sufficiently powerful quantum computer could potentially compromise the security of critical systems reliant on complex mathematical formulas, including banking institutions, the US power grid, and government agencies. Morgan Stern, senior quantum resistance lead at the National Security Agency (NSA), emphasized the urgency of addressing this threat while acknowledging that a cryptographically relevant quantum computer does not yet exist.
The Biden administration’s National Security Memorandum 10 outlines a goal for the US government to transition away from quantum-vulnerable cryptography by 2035. The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) is leading this effort, collaborating with international partners to develop and implement a comprehensive transition plan. This undertaking represents the largest cryptographic migration in history, highlighting the significant implications of quantum computing for cybersecurity.
Balancing Openness with Security in the Quantum Workforce
The symposium also addressed the critical need for international talent in the quantum field. With foreign-born workers comprising over half of the US quantum workforce, balancing openness to global talent with the need to protect intellectual property is a delicate but crucial challenge. FBI Executive Assistant Director Young emphasized the importance of ensuring the US remains an attractive destination for talented individuals while safeguarding against economic espionage and illicit technology transfer.
The discussions underscored the dual competition facing the US: a technological race in the quantum realm and a global competition to attract the brightest minds. Maintaining a balance between attracting top talent and protecting national interests is paramount for the continued growth and security of the US quantum ecosystem. The symposium served as a valuable platform for fostering collaboration and addressing these complex challenges. The insights shared and connections forged represent a crucial step towards securing the future of quantum technology in the US and beyond.
