Bipartisan Senate Bill Would Prepare U.S. Grid for Quantum Cyber Risks
Summary
The proposed Quantum-GUARD Act would direct FERC to consider quantum-computing threats in electric-grid reliability reviews and explore post-quantum cryptography for IT and OT systems.
Key points
- Sens. Mike Rounds and Chris Coons introduced the bipartisan Quantum-GUARD Act.
- The bill would expand FERC reliability reviews to include future cybersecurity threats from quantum computers.
- It would direct FERC to explore post-quantum cryptography for information and operational technology systems.
- Industry experts say utilities must plan infrastructure upgrades to protect SCADA communications and software updates.
- The article says federal agencies’ post-quantum cryptography migration deadline was moved from 2035 to 2030.
Article Details
- Event Type
- Bipartisan Senate legislation proposed to prepare the U.S. electric grid for future quantum-computing cybersecurity threats.
- Impact
- If enacted, the Quantum-GUARD Act would expand FERC reviews of electricity reliability standards to consider quantum threats and examine post-quantum cryptography for IT and OT systems. The article describes a preparedness measure, not a reported cyber incident or an existing quantum attack.
People
Ali ShaikhCEO of Graphiant who commented on quantum-resistant encryption and the need to upgrade infrastructure.Chris CoonsU.S. senator who introduced the Quantum-GUARD Act with Mike Rounds and commented on quantum-computing cybersecurity risks.Evgeny GervisCEO of SafeLogic who discussed security and reliability challenges for the energy sector, including risks to SCADA communications.Mike RoundsU.S. senator who introduced the Quantum-GUARD Act with Chris Coons.