September 6, 2026
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Quantum Computer Breaks RSA-2048 Encryption in Lab Demonstration

A research team has demonstrated the first successful quantum attack on standard RSA-2048 encryption, sending urgent signals about the need for post-quantum cryptographic migration.

WiredSeptember 5, 20261 min read
AI Editorial Insight
Every encrypted message ever intercepted may become retroactively decryptable.

In what cybersecurity experts are calling a watershed moment, a research team has demonstrated a successful factoring of RSA-2048 using a 4,000-qubit quantum processor.

RSA-2048 encryption underpins the vast majority of secure internet communications, financial transactions, and government systems. Governments and major technology companies are now scrambling to accelerate their post-quantum cryptography migration plans.

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The research team emphasized that practical quantum attacks on classical encryption could become feasible within 24-36 months.

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Wired
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