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Letter: Quantum computing must be reigned in to stop Q-Day

Published 1 July 2026

From John Bell, Berkhamsted, Hertfordshire, UK

Regarding the threat of Q-Day, when quantum computers will be able to crack encryption, I am struck by a familiar pattern: our collective inability to pause a self-destructive trajectory. We act as if this code-breaking is as inevitable and unavoidable as Y2K, rather than an active engineering choice (6 June, p 18).

If society were acting rationally, we would limit quantum development, solidify post-quantum standards, then proceed. Instead, we rush forward without thinking. If we can’t secure our digital foundations against a known threat, what hope is there for greater existential challenges?

Issue no. 3602 published 4 July 2026

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