Canada is stepping up research into quantum-safe cybersecurity, with the National Research Council of Canada (NRC) launching an initiative focused on protecting critical digital systems against future threats posed by increasingly powerful quantum computers.

The NRC’s Quantum Safe Technologies Initiative, scheduled to run from 2026 to 2028, aims to develop and test post-quantum cryptography applications and security protocols. These technologies are intended to help safeguard sensitive information and strengthen the security of essential infrastructure.

The initiative targets key sectors including finance, telecommunications, healthcare, transportation and national defence. Current encryption methods protect much of the information exchanged online, but sufficiently advanced quantum computers could eventually threaten some widely used cryptographic systems.

One concern is the “harvest now, decrypt later” strategy, in which attackers collect encrypted information today in the hope of accessing it in the future. Developing quantum-resistant security could help Canadian organizations prepare for this emerging risk.

The research forms part of Canada’s broader efforts to advance quantum technologies and strengthen digital resilience. However, developing and deploying effective protections will require continued testing, technical collaboration and adoption across critical industries.