Microsoft has unveiled its new quantum chip, Majorana 1, which could revolutionize computing but also poses significant risks to democracy and human rights. The chip’s development raises concerns about the potential misuse of quantum computing for surveillance and espionage.
The company’s efforts to build a more secure future are being overshadowed by worries about the consequences of this technology in the wrong hands. Governments, private companies, and civil society organizations must work together to address these risks and ensure that quantum computing benefits society as a whole.
One way to mitigate the risks is for digital rights organizations to engage with tech companies, policymakers, and international standards organizations to develop guardrails around the use of quantum computing for surveillance or military purposes. These efforts could shape discussions at OECD, UN, and WEF forums on global governance.
Civil society must also be vigilant about digital security as the quantum age approaches. This includes transitioning to secure messaging platforms like Signal in countries where governments are already harvesting data with the intention of decrypting it later.
The development of Majorana 1 highlights the need for a proactive approach to addressing the risks posed by quantum computing. By working together, stakeholders can harness this technology’s potential to drive progress and innovation while protecting democracy and human rights.
Source: https://www.justsecurity.org/108168/quantum-age