Quantum Computing Is Coming for Your Passwords—Here’s What to Do Before That Happens

Future hackers may already be collecting your data—strengthen your security before it’s too late.

Stronger passwords, pass-phrases, and security keys can protect you in a post-quantum world. Poca Wander Stock/Shutterstock

Quantum computers are being developed that are powerful enough to break the encryption protecting your passwords, bank accounts, and personal data. That future is nearer than most people think; enough that the U.S. federal government finalized new encryption standards in 2024 to prepare for it.

You don’t need to understand quantum physics to protect yourself. Solutions such as a password manager, longer pass-phrases, and hardware security keys are available right now.