Quantum-Secure Printing: Protecting the Documents In Post-Quantum Era

Introducing quantum computing and communications inevitably exerts a strong impact on the field of office printing. The principles of organizing corporate networks, connections, data processing centers, as well as the approaches to their protection, will undergo significant changes. Computing speeds are growing, and solving multiple tasks including optimization and modeling will become feasible through simple enumeration of possibilities. It is also worth noting the prospects opened up by quantum communications actively implemented by Russian Railways. The advantages brought by quantum technologies are indisputable.

The Emerging Quantum Threats

However, like any developing technology, quantum computing poses new challenges. The Internet and Artificial Intelligence, while greatly improving our lives, gave rise to modern cybercrime. Similarly, quantum technologies carry potential threats. Quantum computers can bypass most modern protection methods based on asymmetric cryptography, such as RSA and elliptic curve cryptography (ECC). This would enable malicious actors to compromise and modify a vast number of code sequences, potentially leading to firmware corruption. The potential scale of threats related to quantum technologies is enormous.

According to the 2024 report by the Global Risk Institute, cyber threats by 2034 are deemed “quite possible”. Approximately one-third of the 32 participating experts allow for a 50% probability that quantum computers will be able to hack cryptographic algorithms by 2034, while the average probability assessment is 27%. Germany’s Federal Office for Information Security (BSI) also assumes a high likelihood that existing cryptographic methods will be compromised by quantum computers within the next 16 years, though it acknowledges this could happen as early as 10 years due to new technological breakthroughs.

The Concept of Quantum-Secure Printing

Amid the rapid development of quantum technology, traditional protection methods face serious threats. In response to this growing menace, an innovative approach known as Quantum-Secure Printing has emerged. This concept involves using advanced printing technologies to integrate quantum attack-resistant elements and solutions into documents. Such documents offer a higher level of protection against copying and forgery, thereby enhancing overall security. This concept can fundamentally transform the way important documents such as passports, other identity certificates, and financial documents are protected in the post-quantum computing era. We will examine three of the most sought-after solutions within the framework of quantum-secure printing: Quantum-Resistant Codes, Optical Security Features, and Quantum-Resistant Inks.

• Quantum-Resistant Codes

One key element proposed to ensure document security in the era of quantum technology development is the use of Quantum-Resistant Codes – codes that can withstand quantum computing attacks and deciphering via quantum algorithms. The introduction of such codes will significantly hinder forgery, as counterfeiters will find them extremely difficult to reproduce. Quantum-Resistant Codes can take various forms, such as QR codes or barcodes, and can be applied using special inks and materials. Their generation is based on mathematical algorithms immune to hacking by quantum computing, guaranteeing protection even if traditional encryption methods are compromised by quantum computers.

• Optical Security Features

Another innovative solution is the integration of optical security elements that utilize quantum mechanics principles to create unique visual patterns practically impossible to replicate. These elements are based on Quantum Interference resulting from the interaction of light waves. Through precise projection of these interactions, unique patterns are created and incorporated into documents using special printing methods, providing a high level of anti-forgery protection.

• Quantum-Resistant Inks

Quantum-secure printing also entails the use of special Quantum-Resistant Inks with unique properties that are difficult to replicate or counterfeit. Examples include Quantum-Dot Inks, which contain fine semiconducting particles that emit light of a specific wavelength when agitated. When integrated into documents, these particles create unique patterns visible under special lighting, significantly increasing resistance to forgery.

Why Quantum-Secure Printing Is Becoming Essential

Due to the development of quantum computers and the increasing vulnerability of traditional data protection methods, the implementation of quantum-secure printing has become a necessity. Utilizing Quantum-Resistant Codes, Optical Security Features, and special inks ensures the preservation of confidential data, personal information, financial transactions, and public records even in the event of quantum attacks.

Furthermore, quantum-secure printing can fundamentally change the fight against counterfeiting. Advanced security features integrated into printed documents will make replication for forgery an extremely complex process. This will have a significant impact on data protection in sectors where forgery is a serious threat, such as banking, pharmacy, and luxury goods sales. The development of quantum-secure printing is progressing rapidly, and a range of practical applications are already being implemented globally. Therefore, it is necessary to carefully analyze three key aspects: the price and availability of quantum-secure printing, as well as its environmental friendliness and longevity.

• Cost and Accessibility

The price and availability of quantum-secure printing are subjects of extensive debate. Implementing this technology requires specialized inks, new printing devices, and identification methods, leading to high development and implementation costs. The issue of price raises doubts about the feasibility of small companies or individual users with limited funding adopting quantum-secure printing. Proponents argue that price should not be a barrier to protecting confidential data, as the potential damage from document forgery outweighs the necessary initial investment. They also believe that as the technology advances and becomes more widely used, costs will decrease, making quantum-secure printing accessible to a broader audience. Critics, however, question its availability and practicality for most potential users. High prices may limit its use to large corporations and public institutions, leading to digital inequality in document protection. They also question whether the benefits of quantum-secure printing justify the costs, especially since traditional methods such as encryption and physical protection can still provide a sufficient level of security.

• Environmental Considerations

Another point of contention is the potential environmental impact of quantum security. Specialized inks and newly designed printers may contain rare or toxic components that could negatively affect the environment during production and disposal. Proponents of quantum-secure printing argue that environmental risks must be weighed against its benefits in document protection, as the consequences of forgery can be severe – such as financial fraud or threats to national security. Critics, meanwhile, emphasize the importance of environmentally safe and sustainable solutions for any new technology, calling for further research to minimize the environmental impact of quantum-secure printing and explore more eco-friendly alternatives.

Debate Over Quantum-secure Printing

In the long run, the prospects of quantum-secure printing are a matter of debate, as they raise questions about the technology’s effectiveness and longevity. Like any new technology, its ability to withstand emerging hacking methods is uncertain. Proponents of quantum protection assert that it is a necessary solution for safeguarding documents in the post-quantum era. Critics, however, express doubts about the long-term effectiveness of quantum-protected printing, arguing that advances in hacking methods and quantum computing could undermine this new technology in the future. They suggest that instead of investing heavily in quantum-secure printing, efforts should focus on developing more secure encryption algorithms capable of resisting quantum attacks and exploring other technologies that can provide better and longer-lasting security.

The introduction of any innovative security method naturally raises questions about urgency when risks have not yet materialized. However, experts in confidential data protection recognize that once quantum threats become a reality, the development of protective mechanisms will be too late. Many economic sectors, such as finance, law, and public administration, handle highly sensitive information that requires long-term protection. For example, government agencies process classified documents, banks store customer data, medical institutions manage personal medical records, and law firms handle confidential legal materials. In these organizations, the security of printed materials is a top priority, and quantum-resistant printing represents an effective solution.

In the context of new technology development, two critically important directions for achieving quantum-secure printing can be highlighted, both of which have already been partially implemented: Quantum Key Distribution and Post-Quantum Encryption Algorithms.

Quantum Key Distribution

Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) is a cryptographic method that uses quantum mechanics principles to create secure communication channels. QKD enables the secure transmission of encryption keys between parties and detects any interception attempts. Unlike traditional encryption methods based on mathematical principles, QKD uses the laws of physics to ensure the confidentiality and integrity of transmitted data. Integrating QKD into the printing process protects documents from quantum attacks, adding an extra layer of security.

Post-Quantum Encryption Algorithms

With the advent of the post-quantum computing era, the protection of digital documents will be ensured through Post-Quantum Encryption Algorithms. Traditional encryption methods, including RSA and ECC, are becoming increasingly vulnerable to attacks by advancing quantum computers. To address this problem, scientists are developing post-quantum cryptography algorithms that are resistant to the effects of quantum computing systems.

It is important to emphasize that for large-scale industrial implementation of Post-Quantum Encryption Algorithms, it is necessary not only to develop them but also to establish corresponding standards. This task is considered a priority and is being actively pursued in many countries. The United States leads in this regard: in August 2024, the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) published new quantum-resistant cryptographic algorithms as Federal Information Processing Standards (FIPS) – specifically FIPS 203, FIPS 204, and FIPS 205 – formalized as industry standards. These new algorithms offer solutions for wide application in protocols and applications, complementing existing standardized post-quantum hash-signatures suitable for specialized tasks such as code-signing.

Collective Efforts Regarding Quantum Resistance

Even in a developed country like the United States, it is acknowledged that addressing threats from quantum technologies requires the collective efforts of industry experts. Therefore, NIST launched the National Cybersecurity Center of Excellence (NCCoE) Migration to Post-Quantum Cryptography project, uniting relevant organizations and end-users to solve practical challenges in the development and implementation of quantum-resistant cryptography.

• Standards

Standards play a crucial role in the industry’s transition to quantum resistance, as they establish general industry consensus and leading security practices, ensuring compatibility between different system components. The community is actively integrating quantum resistance into the technology stack – from standards defining new cryptographic algorithms to the protocols and applications that use them – making quantum resistance accessible to a wide range of users.

• Government policy

Government policy also plays an important role in the implementation of quantum-secure printing. State agencies, with their unique expertise, are responsible for protecting national assets. Understanding their strategies and policies regarding critical systems and infrastructure is essential for any organization planning the timely migration of corporate data security systems.

Many countries are actively working in this direction. In the United States, a comprehensive action plan was enacted in 2022 to transition national security systems to quantum-resistant solutions. Starting in 2027, all new procurements must comply with quantum-resistance requirements, and non-compliant solutions must be phased out by the end of 2030. The U.S. President’s executive order of January 16, 2025, “Strengthening and Promoting Innovation in the Nation’s Cybersecurity,” underscores the urgency of migrating security systems, mandating federal agencies to require quantum-resistant cryptography in product procurements and quantum-resistant protection in computer networks within the shortest possible time. Concurrently, NIST published a draft plan to end support for classical asymmetric cryptography (RSA and ECC) by the end of 2030 and fully prohibit it after 2035. Significant spending on equipment modernization is expected: in July 2024, the U.S. Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs released a report estimating the total cost of transitioning U.S. government priority systems to quantum-resistant cryptography between 2025 and 2035 at approximately $7.1 billion. It is emphasized that the majority of this sum will be used to replace cryptography built into hardware or firmware.

In European countries such as the United Kingdom, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Sweden, Norway, and Switzerland, security services strongly recommend preparing for new challenges by developing detailed security system migration plans and setting priorities. As early as April 2024, the European Commission issued a recommendation to develop a strategy for the accelerated transition of state agencies and other critical infrastructure to newer quantum-secure technologies (Recommendation on a Coordinated Implementation Roadmap for the transition to Post-Quantum Cryptography). To further advance this initiative, in November 2024, 18 EU member states published a communiqué urging prioritization of the transition to quantum-resistant cryptography and protection of the most confidential data as soon as possible, but no later than the end of 2030.

• OEMs Response

Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) recognize the potential threats posed by quantum technologies, and most companies are actively developing new equipment integrated with quantum-resistant cryptographic methods. Hewlett Packard (HP), a leader in this field, introduced the world’s first business PCs protected from quantum computer attacks at the firmware level in 2024, and in March 2025, announced the first printers – HP Color LaserJet Enterprise MFP 8801, Mono MFP 8601, and LaserJet Pro Mono SFP 8501 – with similar protection.

Conclusion

Quantum-secure printing is a solution that organizations must implement today, and it should be introduced as part of an approved program. The adoption of quantum-resistant cryptography, replacement of hardware with models featuring firmware integrity protection against quantum computer attacks, integration of Quantum Key Distribution systems, and other solutions developed to counter post-quantum threats will require significant time to address technical, programmatic, and organizational issues, as well as to train necessary personnel.

This article is republished from <Business Inform> with permission.

Malinskiy is the general director of BUSINESS-INFORM—an information agency based in Moscow—is mainly active in researching and consulting on the Russian office equipment and supplies market, and also has over 250 scientific works and articles to his name. He is the chief editor of the Russian catalogs of printers, copiers, MFPs, and supplies. For more information, please contact him at <malinskiy_stas@mail.ru>

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You can read more of Dr Malinskiy’s articles and opinions:

• Quantum Technologies Are to Change the IT-Market
• Launching the Print-Rite Brand in Russia
• Russians Color and New Printing Technologies
• Remanufacturing Thrives in Russia
• The Distribution of International Brands in the Russian Market
• Environmental Test Results on Printer Cartridges Analyzed
• Russian Printing Supplies Market Update
• Russia: Dealing with Issues of Data Security in the Office
• Russian Aftermarket Opportunity Guarantees Success

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