New Study Reveals Lower Threshold for Quantum Computers to Break RSA Encryption

5 June 2025

A groundbreaking study has significantly revised the estimated power required for quantum computers to break RSA encryption. Previous assumptions suggested the need for 20 million qubits, but new findings indicate that a quantum computer with just 1 million qubits could achieve this feat. This revelation has sparked heightened concerns within the cybersecurity community and calls for a swift move towards post-quantum cryptography solutions.

RSA encryption, which underpins much of todaynulls data security, relies on the difficulty of factoring large numbersnulla task beyond the reach of classical computers. Quantum computers, leveraging principles of quantum mechanics, have the potential to perform these calculations exponentially faster. While once considered distant, the possibility of cracking RSA encryption now appears more imminent, making the transition to quantum-resistant encryption methods not just advisable, but imperative.

This study reinforces the urgency for organisations to prioritise the development and adoption of cryptographic methods that can withstand quantum attacks. The findings serve as a critical reminder of the accelerating timeline for achieving quantum supremacy and the need for robust preparedness in protecting sensitive information.

The implications extend far beyond theoretical debates and academic speculation. Many organisations – especially in sectors such as finance, healthcare, defence, and critical infrastructure – continue to rely heavily on RSA and similar cryptographic protocols. If these systems were compromised by a functional quantum computer, the resulting data breaches could be catastrophic. This isn’t merely about protecting future data; it’s also about safeguarding historical encrypted information, which could be harvested now and decrypted later – a strategy known as “store now, decrypt later.” With the technological horizon shifting, the window for proactive response is rapidly narrowing.

Governments and standards bodies have already begun addressing the threat, with initiatives such as the US National Institute of Standards and Technology’s (NIST) post-quantum cryptography project and the EU’s Quantum Flagship programme. Yet, the adoption of quantum-resistant algorithms remains inconsistent across industries. The revised estimate of one million qubits – a milestone that could be reachable within the next decade – adds urgency to these efforts. For organisations undergoing digital transformation, this presents a dual challenge: maintaining innovation and agility while future-proofing cybersecurity strategies against a quantum future that’s arriving faster than many had anticipated.

Latest Tech and AI Posts