I don't think you should be, there are encryption algorithms that are resistant to quantum computers cracking them. They just don't happen to be any of the current ones. The real concern should be limited to data that has been captured in the pre-quantum era can be cracked in a post-quantum era. Will it matter if the NSA can decrypt some data of yours they captured today in 20 or 30 years? Mostly, no. As the quantum era approaches, people will switch to post-quantum cryptography. But I would imagine there could be a certain vein of cold cases that get solved through quantum computing the way there is a vein cold cases solved through the application DNA technology. It will be a real thing, but pretty limited in scope.
I think the more interesting part will be decrypting intercepted government cables. It's not necessarily immediately useful, but it will be revealing to have, e.g. China or some future WikiLeaks in 2040 posting all the dirty shit they decrypted that he USA was doing in 2020, for example.
scared for what it means for encryption, considering state entities will be the main consumers.
I don't think you should be, there are encryption algorithms that are resistant to quantum computers cracking them. They just don't happen to be any of the current ones. The real concern should be limited to data that has been captured in the pre-quantum era can be cracked in a post-quantum era. Will it matter if the NSA can decrypt some data of yours they captured today in 20 or 30 years? Mostly, no. As the quantum era approaches, people will switch to post-quantum cryptography. But I would imagine there could be a certain vein of cold cases that get solved through quantum computing the way there is a vein cold cases solved through the application DNA technology. It will be a real thing, but pretty limited in scope.
I think the more interesting part will be decrypting intercepted government cables. It's not necessarily immediately useful, but it will be revealing to have, e.g. China or some future WikiLeaks in 2040 posting all the dirty shit they decrypted that he USA was doing in 2020, for example.