On Wednesday, President Biden signed the Quantum Computing Cybersecurity bill into law.
The Quantum Computing Cybersecurity Preparedness Act addresses the risks of the advancement of quantum computers.
While quantum computing benefits industries like healthcare, finance, transportation, and more, it also poses a significant threat to cybersecurity— especially as foreign countries with hostile relationships with the US have also prioritized quantum technology.
Quantum computers can perform certain types of calculations much faster than classical computers, and they have the potential to break many of the encryption algorithms that are currently used to protect sensitive information. This allows attackers to access sensitive data and disrupt critical infrastructure.
The Quantum Computing Cybersecurity Preparedness Act aims to address these risks by establishing a program to research and develop quantum-resistant cybersecurity technologies, as well as to educate the public about the potential risks and challenges posed by quantum computers. It is intended to help ensure that the United States is prepared to defend against potential threats to its cybersecurity as quantum computers become more powerful and widespread.
The SBA Cyber Awareness Act was also signed into law. This a proposed piece of legislation that aims to increase cybersecurity awareness and training among small businesses. Small businesses often lack the resources and expertise to effectively protect themselves against cyber threats, making them particularly vulnerable to attacks.
The SBA Cyber Awareness Act would establish a program to provide cybersecurity awareness and training to small business owners and employees. This could include education about how to identify and protect against cyber threats, how to secure company data and systems, and how to respond to cyber incidents. The Act would also establish a grant program to provide funding for small businesses to implement cybersecurity measures and practices.
The goal of the SBA Cyber Awareness Act is to help small businesses better protect themselves against cyber threats and to promote a culture of cybersecurity within the small business community. By increasing cybersecurity awareness and training, the Act aims to reduce the risk of cyber attacks on small businesses and to improve the overall resilience of the small business sector.
