19-05-2025
China debuts world's first quantum cryptography system, claims it's ‘unhackable'
As quantum computing advances, traditional encryption faces growing risks from powerful new algorithms. In a bid to address these issues, a government-owned company in China has introduced what it claims to be the world's first commercial cryptography system resistant to even quantum computer attacks.
The China Telecom Quantum Group announced last week the launch of the world's first self-proclaimed distributed cryptography system that combines two core technologies. The company also declared that it had completed the world's first cross-regional quantum-encrypted phone call using this system, covering a distance of more than 600 miles between Beijing and Hefei.
Combining two advanced approaches, the system uses Quantum Key Distribution to securely transmit encryption keys via quantum mechanics and Post-Quantum Cryptography to protect data using complex mathematical algorithms, according to a report in the South China Morning Post (SCMP).
The China Telecom Quantum Group also stated that this combination creates an end-to-end quantum-secure architecture designed for key applications like real-time communication, data protection, and trusted identity authentication.
According to Peng Chengzhi, chief quantum scientist at China Telecom and professor at the University of Science and Technology of China, public key-based encryption systems will face growing risks as quantum computing technology progresses worldwide.
The scientist emphasized the urgent need to accelerate the development and deployment of new quantum-resistant cybersecurity infrastructure to stay ahead of emerging threats posed by advancing quantum technologies.
The company explained that its new system features a robust three-layer architecture. The group reported that its technology had been successfully tested in real-world conditions and is now ready for large-scale commercial rollout, marking a significant step toward practical, quantum-secure communications.
China Telecom has established quantum metropolitan area networks in 16 major Chinese cities, including Hefei, Shanghai, Beijing, and Guangzhou. These networks create a nationwide, cross-regional backbone for quantum-secure communication, placing China among the global leaders in quantum security. Notably, the Hefei Quantum network stands out as the largest and most advanced quantum network of its kind in the world.
With eight core nodes and 159 access points covering approximately 713 miles of quantum key distribution fiber, the network currently serves around 500 government agencies and 380 state-owned enterprises. It aims to leverage the principles of quantum mechanics and ensure encryption that is virtually unbreakable.
The SCMP report added that China Telecom also unveiled Quantum Secret, which is described as the world's first carrier-grade quantum-secure instant messaging and collaboration platform, providing businesses and government agencies with enhanced protection for sensitive communications.
Alongside this, the company introduced Quantum Cloud Seal, a secure platform tailored for critical applications such as government approvals, financial audits, and enterprise workflow management. Both platforms have already seen broad adoption across multiple industries, reflecting growing demand for quantum-level security solutions in today's digital landscape.
