US quantum computing security challenges

In late July 2026, U.S. stakeholders began highlighting the dual impact of quantum computing: commercial sectors such as insurance were partnering with research groups to explore quantum‑enhanced risk modeling, while the federal government accelerated funding for quantum research and prepared for a transition to post‑quantum cryptography by the mid‑2030s. Simultaneously, officials warned that the same technology threatens critical infrastructure. Within two days, the White House issued an executive order directing the power‑grid sector to ready its systems against quantum‑based cryptographic attacks, noting that adversaries are already collecting encrypted control‑system data for future decryption. The order cited projected operational quantum machines as early as 2029 and emphasized the need to protect SCADA communications, device authentication, and grid‑control commands. Together, the snapshots illustrate a rapid shift from early industry experimentation to concrete government policy aimed at safeguarding essential services from emerging quantum threats.