The second quantum revolution : the impact of quantum computing and quantum technologies on law enforcement

Quantum computing and quantum technologies hold significant potential to improve a wide range of applications and tasks. At the same time, recent technological progress in this field, also referred to as the 'Second Quantum Revolution', is threatening to break the encryption we use to keep our most sensitive information safe. The purpose of this report is to provide a forward-looking assessment of the impact of quantum computing and quantum technologies from the law enforcement perspective. In offering an extensive look at the wide range of potential applications in this context, this report is the first of its kind. The report is the result of a collaborative effort of the European Commission's Joint Research Centre (JRC), Europol's European Cybercrime Centre (EC3), and the Europol Innovation Lab. It aims to inform decision-makers, policy-makers, and practitioners on the benefits and threats stemming from quantum computing and quantum technologies. The report provides an update on the current state-of-play, and offers concrete recommendations to better prepare for the future. Quantum computing and quantum technologies have the potential to revolutionise the work of law enforcement. One of the most immediately significant areas quantum computers will impact is cryptography. As such, a large part of the cryptographic protocols currently used are threatened by the arrival of quantum computers. This includes both symmetric and asymmetric cryptography. While symmetric cryptography can be relatively easily patched, widely used asymmetric cryptography would collapse entirely if subjected to this process.