Vodafone and IBM have announced a collaborative initiative to develop and test quantum-safe technology designed to protect smartphone users from potential future quantum computing threats. The partnership focuses on implementing post-quantum cryptography (PQC) standards to enhance the security of internet browsing and data transmission, building on growing industry efforts to prepare for quantum computing challenges.
The telecommunications provider has developed a new proof of concept using IBM Quantum Safe technology, which is being tested through Vodafone’s mobile digital security service, Secure Net. The service currently provides protection against phishing, malware, and identity theft across Vodafone’s fixed and mobile networks. The initiative marks a significant advancement for Vodafone’s digital security capabilities, which have already positioned the company as a leader in mobile network security innovation.
Cybersecurity firm Akamai is supporting the proof of concept, bringing additional expertise to the project. The solution incorporates PQC standards into existing encryption algorithms, building on work by IBM researchers who co-developed two of the algorithms included in the US National Institute of Standards and Technology’s (NIST) PQC standards, which were formalized in August 2024. The development follows similar initiatives by other technology providers, including recent advancements in post-quantum authentication solutions.
Both companies are founding members of the GSMA Post-Quantum Telco Network Taskforce, established in 2022. The industry group works to define requirements, identify dependencies, and develop implementation roadmaps for quantum-safe networking across the telecommunications sector. The taskforce represents a crucial industry collaboration as mobile networks become increasingly central to digital identity and security infrastructure.
Luke Ibbetson, Head of Research & Development at Vodafone, explained that while quantum computing offers potential societal benefits such as modeling new medicines and optimizing advanced digital networks, it could also challenge current internet security measures. “That is why Vodafone and IBM are working together with other partners to get ahead of the curve,” he stated.
IBM’s Quantum Safe Industry Lead, Lory Thorpe, highlighted the importance of implementing post-quantum cryptography, noting that “Vodafone has led by example as an early adopter of post-quantum security solutions.” The collaboration underscores the growing recognition that traditional cryptographic methods may become vulnerable to quantum computing attacks, requiring proactive development of quantum-resistant security measures.
Sources: Infosecurity Magazine, ISPreview, Samsung Semiconductor
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