TLDR: A new report from the Capgemini Research Institute reveals that nearly two-thirds of organizations view quantum computing as the most significant cybersecurity threat within the next 3 to 5 years. The study, titled ‘Future encrypted: Why post-quantum cryptography tops the new cybersecurity agenda,’ highlights growing concerns over ‘harvest-now, decrypt-later’ attacks, where encrypted data is stolen today to be decrypted once quantum computers are powerful enough.
A recent report by the Capgemini Research Institute, published on July 10, 2025, has found that the rapid advancement of quantum computing is a major concern for organizations globally, with 65% worried about the prospect of ‘harvest-now, decrypt-later’ attacks. These attacks involve cybercriminals stealing encrypted data now, with the intention of decrypting it in the future when quantum computers become capable of breaking current encryption standards.
The report, titled ‘Future encrypted: Why post-quantum cryptography tops the new cybersecurity agenda,’ surveyed 1,000 organizations with annual revenues of at least $1 billion across 13 sectors and 13 countries. It found that while awareness of the threat is increasing, many organizations are still underestimating the risks.
The concept of ‘Q-day’—the day when quantum computers can defeat current cryptographic algorithms—is a significant point of discussion. According to the report, six in ten ‘early adopters’ of quantum-safe technologies believe Q-day will arrive within the next 5 to 10 years, while one in six of this group predicts it will happen within five years.
Regulatory pressure is a major factor driving the transition to post-quantum cryptography (PQC), with 70% of organizations citing it as a key motivator. High-risk industries are at the forefront of adopting quantum-safe solutions. The defense sector leads with a 90% adoption rate, followed by banking at 86% and telecommunications at 76%. In contrast, consumer-focused sectors are lagging, with consumer products at 48% and retail at 51%.
However, not all organizations are taking action. The report reveals that 30% of organizations are still ignoring the quantum threat, citing challenges with budget and staffing for the transition to new cryptographic standards.
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Marco Pereira, Global Head of Cybersecurity, Cloud Infrastructure Services at Capgemini, emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, ‘Quantum readiness isn’t about predicting a date–it’s about managing irreversible risk. Every encrypted asset today could become tomorrow’s breach if organizations delay adopting post-quantum protections. Transitioning early ensures business continuity, regulatory alignment, and long-term trust.’ He added, ‘Quantum safety is not a discretionary spend but a strategic investment, which can turn a looming risk into a competitive advantage. The organizations that recognize this fact early will best insulate themselves against future cyber-attacks.’
