Over the past few years, we have been trying to raise awareness about the possible cybersecurity threats and other big-picture issues arising from the development of quantum computers but one thing we haven’t asked ourselves is what one sounds like. Now, thanks to Quartz and IBM we know. Spoiler alert (if you haven’t played the video already): it’s just about exactly what you’d expect. With a decent beat.
Credit: Mick Tsikas/EPA-EFE/REX/Shutterstock
Michelle Yvonne Simmons, a professor of quantum physics in the Faculty of Science at the University of New South Wales, has been named 2018’s “Australian of the Year” for her work contributing to the creation of the world’s thinnest wire and the first transistor made from a single atom. Maybe we’re biased but we think this should start a trend of giving awards to quantum scientists.
[via Livescience]Our friends at Northrup Grumman remind us to “Encrypt Before Sending, and Why Encryption Matters” on their NOW blog.
If you find that that article isn’t challenging enough for you, might we recommend this series from Hackaday describing the basics of quantum computing. You might guess from the image above that it’s a bit daunting and a rather dense read, but we never claimed that quantum computing is a simple subject.
Image via NY Post (Composite; Shutterstock)
With Valentine’s Day looming, you’ll want to be careful if you’re trying to find a date through a popular dating app. As WIRED so kindly reminds us, Tinder’s lack of encryption means strangers can spy on your swipes. Nothing says, “Be My Valentine” like a creepy invasion of data privacy, right? C’mon, Tinder, give everyone the best Valentine’s Day present: encryption!