Chinese researchers at Shanghai University have accomplished a significant advancement in quantum computing by executing the world’s first practical attack on widely used encryption algorithms using a real quantum computer. The team, led by Wang Chao, utilized Canada’s D-Wave Advantage quantum computer to target three representative Substitution-Permutation Network (SPN) structure symmetric cipher algorithms: PRESENT, GIFT-64, and RECTANGLE. These algorithms form the basis of password-protection mechanisms employed in critical sectors such as banking, military communications, and data security. The experiments successfully searched for integral distinguishers up to 9 rounds, demonstrating the quantum annealing algorithm’s superior performance in escaping local minima and reducing solution times compared to traditional heuristic-based methods like simulated annealing. This marks the initial practical breach of multiple full-scale SPN structure symmetric ciphers via quantum hardware, achieving results equivalent to conventional mathematical approaches. The breakthrough highlights the potential of specialized quantum systems to challenge existing cryptographic standards, even as general-purpose quantum computing continues to develop. Outcomes include enhanced understanding of quantum threats to current encryption, prompting recommendations for upgrading security protocols to quantum-resistant alternatives. The research has spurred interest in extending these methodologies to other SPN-based algorithms, with expectations for further innovations as quantum technology progresses. This development contributes to global efforts in cybersecurity, providing valuable data for refining defenses against emerging computational risks. Collaborations between academic institutions and quantum hardware providers have facilitated access to advanced systems, enabling rigorous testing and validation of results. The findings have been published in a peer-reviewed journal, offering a foundation for future studies in quantum cryptography. Industry stakeholders are exploring integrations of these insights into next-generation secure systems, ensuring resilience in digital infrastructures. The success underscores China’s growing expertise in quantum technologies, with implications for secure data transmission worldwide. Educational programs in quantum computing are expanding, training more specialists to build on this work. The attack’s efficiency in solution time positions it as a benchmark for evaluating quantum algorithm performance. As a result, international standards bodies are accelerating the adoption of post-quantum cryptography standards. This initiative has also boosted investments in quantum research facilities, fostering an ecosystem for sustained innovation. The practical demonstration validates theoretical models, bridging the gap between simulation and real-world application. Outcomes extend to policy discussions on balancing technological advancement with security needs, promoting robust frameworks for information protection. The research team’s approach has inspired similar experiments on diverse cipher structures, broadening the scope of quantum applications in computation. Overall, this achievement represents a key step in evolving cybersecurity practices, equipping sectors with tools to anticipate and mitigate quantum-based vulnerabilities. The collaboration with international quantum providers exemplifies effective global partnerships in scientific progress. Future applications may include optimizing other optimization problems beyond cryptography, enhancing computational capabilities across fields. This progress reinforces the role of quantum annealing in solving complex challenges, driving efficiency in algorithm design. The detailed experimental results provide a replicable model for researchers, accelerating collective advancements in the field.
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