Down the rabbit hole: Will our secrets survive the quantum computing leap with Dr. Sarah McCarthy

About this episode

The episode explores the implications of quantum computing on encryption and cybersecurity with Dr. Sarah McCarthy.

Quantum computing may feel like a distant part of the future, but many experts believe its widespread adoption could arrive sooner than expected. And with it comes a profound challenge: today’s encryption, which protects global cybersecurity, banking, digital identity, and confidential communication, may no longer be secure. So what happens when quantum computers can break the cryptography that protects our most sensitive information? In this special Alice in Wonderland -themed episode of Tech Tomorrow , David Elliman speaks with Dr. Sarah McCarthy, Quantum Readiness Programme Lead at Citi, to explore the looming post-quantum era. Together, they discuss what executives, security leaders, and organisations need to understand about quantum risk, how to prepare now, and why waiting may already be too late. Through playful Wonderland metaphors inspired by Lewis Carroll, including the Red Queen’s race and the Garden of Talking Flowers, David and Sarah explain complex security concepts with clarity and imagination. They outline what quantum computing really is, how modern cryptography works, why cryptographic agility matters, and what could happen if organisations fail to adapt in…

People in this episode

Host: David Elliman

Guest: Dr. Sarah McCarthy

Topics covered

• quantum computing
• encryption
• cybersecurity
• cryptography
• post-quantum era
• organizational strategy

Keywords

• quantum computing
• encryption
• cybersecurity
• cryptographic agility
• post-quantum era
• quantum risk

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Citi

Books & works: Alice in Wonderland

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