Speaking at the Tech.eu Summit in London, Dr. Ken Urquhart, Global Vice President of 5G/Edge/Satellite at Zscaler, and Steve Brierley, Founder and CEO of Riverlane, Discussed At the critical intersection of artificial intelligence (AI), cybersecurity, and quantum computing, the talk, moderated by Duygu Oktem Clark, Managing Partner at DO Venture Partners, highlighted both the challenges and opportunities these technologies bring.
The Limitations of AI and Cybersecurity
Urquhart began the discussion by discussing the limitations of AI in cybersecurity.
“Currently applied AI includes algorithms that are interpretable and useful for cyber defense,” he said, but noted that current AI techniques such as neural networks and large-scale language models suffer from issues such as statistical drift and hallucinations, which cause the AI to “make up things that may not be true.”
Urquhart explained that these statistical models can become less accurate over time, adding: “If you’re asked the same question twice in a row over the course of hours or days, the AI’s answers may become less accurate, so you need to be thoughtful about how you apply AI.”
The Promise and Challenges of Quantum Computing
Brierley shared his thoughts on advances in quantum computing and its impact on cybersecurity, noting that current quantum computers are “highly error-prone,” capable of only performing around 100 to 1,000 operations before failing, but that great strides have been made in quantum error correction.
“Quantum error correction is a layer that sits on top of the physical qubits and corrects errors in real time,” Brierley explained.
This development is essential to realizing quantum computing capabilities related to cryptography.
“2023 and 2024 are the pivotal years as we push the limits of different qubit methods and error correction becomes feasible,” he said. Brierley predicted that within the next two to three years, quantum computers will be able to perform up to a million operations, exceeding what classical computers can simulate.
Ethical and security considerations
As AI and quantum computing advance, ethical and security challenges arise, and Urquhart stressed the importance of understanding AI’s current limitations.
“We are moving forward with artificial intelligence, which doesn’t think, but is a collection of statistical outcomes,” Urquhart said. Urquhart warned against relying too heavily on artificial intelligence for important decisions, as in its current form it could lead to serious errors.
Brierley added that quantum computing has the potential to revolutionise industry, particularly in simulating molecular dynamics and chemical reactions.
“Quantum computers have the potential to transform industries such as drug discovery and materials science by replacing time-consuming laboratory experiments with simulations,” he said.
Collaborating for a secure digital future
Both experts agreed that responsible use of these technologies requires collaboration between academia, industry and government. Brierley noted the importance of coordinated efforts, likening the task of building the world’s most powerful quantum computer to a “Manhattan-sized project.” “We need effective collaboration between sectors to ensure that the technology benefits society,” he said.
Urquhart echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the role of commercial organisations in driving innovation and the role of governments in providing the regulatory and funding environment.
“The mechanisms are there. We just need the will to put it into action,” he said.
Quantum and the Future of Cybersecurity
Looking to the future, both Urquhart and Brierley stressed the urgency of preparing for the impact that quantum computing will have on cybersecurity.
“Quantum computing will eventually break most encryption,” Urquhart warned, urging companies to act now to mitigate future risks.
Brierley concluded: “Quantum computers are more than just faster computers. They represent a major step forward for certain problems, with enormous potential for both good and bad.”
The discussion highlighted the transformative potential of AI and quantum computing, but also warned against complacency: as these technologies evolve, active collaboration and ethical considerations will be paramount in shaping a secure digital future.
Featured Image: Credit: Tech.eu