Vodafone Partners With IBM On Quantum Mobile Security

Vodafone and IBM have embarked on a strategic collaboration aimed at protecting customer data from emerging threats associated with quantum computing technology.

The partnership has developed a proof of concept that incorporates IBM Quantum Safe technology into Vodafone Secure Net, the telecommunications company's mobile digital security service that defends users against online threats.

Vodafone Secure Net currently protects millions of customers throughout Europe from cyber attacks including phishing, malware and identity theft. The new integration aims to future-proof this protection against risks that may arise as quantum computing capabilities advance.

Vodafone Secure Net receives IBM quantum upgrade

The feasibility test applies IBM's specialised technology to ensure Vodafone's security service maintains effectiveness against future quantum computing threats.

The development responds to concerns that quantum computers could potentially break traditional cryptographic protections that safeguard sensitive information.

To counter this risk, the companies are implementing post-quantum cryptographic standards to strengthen Vodafone Secure Net. This development was demonstrated at Mobile World Congress (MWC25) in Barcelona, with additional support from cybersecurity firm Akamai Technologies.

Vodafone is expanding these efforts by exploring the integration of quantum-resistant cryptographic algorithms across its broader network infrastructure and consumer services, in alignment with industry initiatives promoting post-quantum cryptography standards adoption.

Luke Ibbetson, Vodafone's Head of Research & Development, emphasises the importance of preemptive security measures: "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 modelling new medicines and optimising 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," says Luke.

IBM contributes to national quantum security standards

Quantum computing presents both opportunities and challenges for the technology sector. While it promises to transform industries by solving complex problems at unprecedented speeds, it simultaneously threatens current encryption techniques.

Security experts note that cybercriminals are already employing "harvest now, decrypt later" strategies, collecting encrypted data today with plans to decrypt it when quantum technology becomes viable.

IBM's cryptography researchers have been instrumental in developing countermeasures against these potential threats. In 2024, the company contributed to two algorithms included in the US National Institute of Standards and Technology's (NIST) first three post-quantum cryptography standards.

Lory Thorpe, Quantum Safe Industry Lead at IBM, states: "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 organisations to implement post-quantum cryptography and Vodafone has led by example as an early adopter of post-quantum security solutions," says Lory.

Vodafone has positioned itself among the early adopters of these security measures, having successfully tested IBM Quantum Safe technology to identify and assess cryptographic components within its network infrastructure.

This approach ensures Vodafone's readiness for the transition to post-quantum cryptographic standards established by NIST.

The collaboration extends beyond the direct partnership between the two companies. Both Vodafone and IBM are founding members of the GSMA's Post-Quantum Telco Network Task Force, an industry group formed in 2022.

This task force has expanded to include over 50 telecommunications firms and 20 major network operators, focusing on establishing best practices for implementing post-quantum security throughout the telecommunications sector.

The initiative comes as telecommunications providers face increasing pressure to secure their networks against evolving threats. Quantum computing poses unique challenges to the industry, which relies heavily on cryptographic security to protect both infrastructure and customer data.

By integrating quantum-safe technologies into existing security frameworks, Vodafone aims to maintain protection for its customers without requiring significant changes to their experience or behaviours.

"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," says Lory.

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