Vodafone and IBM entered into a strategic collaboration to strengthen the security of customers’ data and mitigate future risks related to quantum computing while using the internet on smartphones.
By leveraging IBM’s Quantum Safe technology, both companies have developed a new proof of concept to enhance Vodafone Secure Net, Vodafone’s popular mobile all-in-one digital security service already utilized by millions of consumers. This service is designed to defend against common threats such as phishing, malware, and identity theft across Vodafone’s fixed and mobile infrastructure and is available in various European markets.
In this feasibility study, Vodafone is integrating IBM’s Quantum Safe technology to apply emerging post-quantum cryptography (PQC) standards to their existing encryption mechanisms for Vodafone Secure Net, with the support of Akamai Technologies at the prominent Mobile World Congress (MWC25) in Barcelona, Spain.
Luke Ibbetson, Head of Research & Development of Vodafone, said: “We want our customers to enjoy the internet without worry, now and in the future. On the one hand quantum computing could have many societal benefits such as modeling new medicines and optimizing advanced digital networks. But on the other hand, it could be used to undermine the cryptographic principles that the internet relies on today. That is why Vodafone and IBM are working together with other partners to get ahead of the curve.”
Also Read: IBM Strengthens watsonx with Acquisition of DataStaxLory Thorpe, Quantum Safe Industry Lead of IBM, added: “As a pioneer in quantum-safe cryptography and solutions, IBM is proud to expand our collaboration with Vodafone to help protect its customers from anticipated quantum risks. It’s crucial for organizations to implement post-quantum cryptography, and Vodafone has led by example as an early adopter of post-quantum security solutions.”
Vodafone became one of the first companies to test IBM Quantum Safe technology to successfully identify and inventory cryptography in its network infrastructure and systems. Through the new proof of concept based on the IBM Quantum Safe technology, the company is leading the charge in implementing current post-quantum cryptography standards from NIST.
For more information about the IBM Quantum Safe technology and services, visit: https://www.ibm.com/quantum/quantum-safe.
