Quantum cryptography and data protection for medical devices before and after they meet Q-Day

Research output: Contribution to journalComment/DebateContributedpeer-review

Contributors

Abstract

Although still at a nascent state, quantum computing promises advances in healthcare, from drug discovery to personalised treatments. But it also threatens current cryptographic systems that protect medical data and infrastructure. The concept of “Q-Day” highlights risks such as “harvest now, decrypt later” attacks, with particular concerns for medical devices and sensitive applications in fields like femtech. Preparing for this future requires the rapid adoption of post-quantum cryptography, the coordination of time-phased and scalable “technology rollout” strategies, and revised regulatory frameworks to safeguard patient safety, privacy, and trust.

Details

Original languageEnglish
Article number620
Journal npj digital medicine
Volume8
Issue number1
Publication statusPublished - 21 Oct 2025
Peer-reviewedYes

External IDs

PubMedCentral PMC12540643
Scopus 105019496310
ORCID /0000-0002-1997-1689/work/199963892
ORCID /0000-0003-3323-2492/work/199963913
ORCID /0009-0004-7808-2701/work/199964113

Keywords