Telefónica Tech partners with IBM on quantum-safe technology.

NewsTelefónica Tech partners with IBM on quantum-safe technology.

Telefónica Tech Collaborates with IBM to Enhance Cybersecurity in the Quantum Era

In a groundbreaking partnership, Telefónica Tech, the digital arm of the Spanish telecommunications giant Telefónica, is joining forces with IBM to integrate advanced quantum-safe technology into its cybersecurity services. This collaboration aims to tackle the emerging risks associated with the development of quantum computers, which, while promising unprecedented computational power, also pose significant challenges to existing data security protocols. The integration of IBM’s cutting-edge quantum-safe technology is set to revolutionize the way organizations safeguard their critical data against potential threats from future quantum computing advancements.

The agreement between Telefónica Tech and IBM entails the deployment of IBM’s sophisticated quantum-safe technology infrastructure at Telefónica Tech’s headquarters in Madrid, Spain. This strategic move is designed to bolster business development by enhancing cyber resiliency and agility, particularly in the face of vulnerabilities that could emerge with the advent of cryptographically relevant quantum computers. The ultimate goal is to ensure a robust defense against any potential data breaches or security threats posed by these new technological frontiers.

The collaboration was officially announced on January 30, 2025, marking a significant milestone in the cybersecurity landscape. As the world stands on the brink of a quantum revolution, traditional encryption methods are increasingly at risk of becoming obsolete. Quantum computers, once fully realized, will have the capability to perform complex calculations at speeds unimaginable today, potentially rendering current encryption algorithms vulnerable to decryption by malicious actors. This is of particular concern as data harvested today could be decrypted in the future by these powerful machines, making the need for quantum-safe solutions all the more urgent.

IBM has been at the forefront of developing quantum-safe technologies, leveraging enterprise software and research-driven assets to create a comprehensive approach to anticipated quantum risks. Among these innovations is the IBM Guardium Quantum Safe, part of the broader IBM Guardium Data Security Center. This solution provides organizations with the tools to gain visibility into their cryptographic environments, manage vulnerabilities, and prioritize remediation efforts to enhance their overall security posture. A key component of this suite is the IBM Guardium Key Lifecycle Manager, which offers centralized, secure, and scalable encryption key management, vital for maintaining data integrity in a quantum-safe world.

Additionally, IBM has introduced the IBM Quantum Safe Explorer and IBM Quantum Safe Remediator, which are instrumental in identifying cryptographic vulnerabilities within code, testing the performance of quantum-safe algorithms, and establishing quantum-safe proxies. These tools are essential for organizations looking to transition to quantum-safe cryptography, ensuring their data remains secure as the quantum era approaches.

Through this agreement, Telefónica Tech will harness IBM’s advanced quantum-safe technology, combining it with its own expertise in delivering managed and professional cybersecurity services. The objective is to develop tailored solutions that provide businesses and public administrations with robust protection against the emerging security challenges of a post-quantum world. By implementing the new quantum-safe cryptography standards defined by the U.S. National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), Telefónica Tech and IBM are paving the way for secure data management in the quantum age.

Raquel Ruiz Lozano, Global Head of Strategic Partnerships for Telefónica Tech, emphasized the dual nature of quantum computing as both an opportunity and a challenge. She stated, “Quantum computing offers incredible opportunities, but it could also pose a significant challenge in terms of cybersecurity. This collaboration agreement with IBM allows us to continue to help address the potential risks of the post-quantum world, thanks to IBM’s quantum-safe technology, and to offer our clients solutions to help protect their critical data and face this transformation with security and confidence.”

Adolfo Hernández Pulido, Technology Managing Director for Telefónica at IBM, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the importance of transitioning to quantum-safe standards. He remarked, “It is critical for organizations to begin evaluating their cryptography and planning a transition to quantum-safe standards. At IBM, we are proud not only to have had a hand in the development of new post-quantum cryptography algorithms, but also to be leading the way with new quantum-safe technologies and services. We are thrilled to sign this collaboration agreement with Telefónica Tech focused on quantum-safe technology.”

The integration of IBM’s quantum-safe technologies into Telefónica Tech’s service offerings is set to enhance the proactive risk assessments conducted by Telefónica Tech’s operational professionals. This collaboration will enable organizations to identify and address cryptographic vulnerabilities within their infrastructures, ensuring they are well-equipped to face the cybersecurity challenges posed by quantum computing. Furthermore, Telefónica Tech will support organizations in transitioning to new cryptographic standards, protocols, or algorithms, ensuring resilience and agility in the face of these emerging threats.

A key component of the agreement is the establishment of a joint use case office, focusing on essential areas such as communications encryption, adaptation to new secure algorithms, and protection of critical environments. By fostering innovation and collaboration in these areas, Telefónica Tech and IBM are setting the stage for a secure and resilient future in the quantum era.

To support these efforts, IBM’s infrastructure has already been deployed at Telefónica’s headquarters in Distrito Telefónica, Madrid. This infrastructure includes an IBM LinuxONE system, which is secured with end-to-end encryption incorporating new quantum-safe cryptography. Additionally, IBM Storage technology and other advanced tools are being utilized to protect master and operational keys, ensuring a robust defense against the potential threats of the post-quantum world.

About IBM

IBM is a global leader in hybrid cloud, artificial intelligence, and consulting services, helping clients in over 175 countries leverage data insights, optimize business processes, reduce costs, and gain a competitive edge. With more than 4,000 government and corporate clients in critical infrastructure sectors such as financial services, telecommunications, and healthcare, IBM is at the forefront of digital transformation. Its innovative solutions in artificial intelligence, quantum computing, industry-specific cloud offerings, and consulting provide clients with open and flexible options, all underpinned by IBM’s commitment to trust, transparency, accountability, inclusion, and service. For more information, visit www.ibm.com.

In conclusion, the partnership between Telefónica Tech and IBM represents a significant step forward in preparing for the quantum era. By integrating quantum-safe technologies into its cybersecurity services, Telefónica Tech is ensuring that its clients are well-protected against the potential risks posed by future quantum computers. This collaboration not only highlights the importance of staying ahead of technological advancements but also underscores the need for innovative solutions to safeguard critical data in an ever-evolving digital landscape. As we move closer to the realization of quantum computing, such partnerships will be crucial in maintaining data security and ensuring a safe and secure future for organizations worldwide.
For more Information, Refer to this article.

Neil S
Neil S
Neil is a highly qualified Technical Writer with an M.Sc(IT) degree and an impressive range of IT and Support certifications including MCSE, CCNA, ACA(Adobe Certified Associates), and PG Dip (IT). With over 10 years of hands-on experience as an IT support engineer across Windows, Mac, iOS, and Linux Server platforms, Neil possesses the expertise to create comprehensive and user-friendly documentation that simplifies complex technical concepts for a wide audience.
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