Quantum

Federal Quantum Readiness Falls Short as Agencies Face Cryptography Skills Gaps

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Briefings

The Government Accountability Office released a 2026 report revealing that none of 24 major federal agencies fully addressed all three preparation practices for quantum computing threats. Key findings include incomplete system inventories, inadequate cost assessments, and no testing of post-quantum cryptography in agency environments. The report identified one agency as having no inventory, while 22 had inventories missing critical technical details. A December 2024 survey indicated a 50%+ probability of a cryptographically relevant quantum computer by 2040, but recovery of stolen keys could take substantial time. The GAO made 89 recommendations in a 2025 sensitive report, which were not further addressed in the public 2026 version.

Key points

• The GAO found that none of 24 major federal agencies reviewed fully addressed all three preparation practices for protecting systems against future quantum computing threats.
• Only one agency fully addressed the necessary activities for developing a prioritized inventory of vulnerable systems, while 22 had inventories missing critical technical details.

Context

This report addresses a critical gap in federal cybersecurity preparedness regarding quantum computing threats. Agencies must identify systems carrying information that will remain sensitive well into the future, rather than base their work solely on predictions about when quantum computers might become capable of an attack. The report highlights that agencies need to establish what they operate, determine which systems require attention first, and develop repeatable processes for estimating costs and testing replacements.

Limitations

The report relies on a 2025 sensitive report with portions withheld due to agency concerns. The public 2026 version makes no additional recommendations beyond the earlier audit findings. The timeline for quantum computer development remains uncertain, with a December 2024 survey placing the probability of a cryptographically relevant quantum computer by 2040 above 50%. The report does not confirm whether the deficiencies identified during the earlier review were addressed, nor does it provide evidence of heightened preparation beyond the initial findings.

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