Quantum Computing Threats to IEC 62351 Cryptographic Algorithms: An In-Depth Analysis
Brian Goncalves, Arash Mahari, Atefeh Mashatan, Mohammadreza F. M. Arani, Marthe Kassouf · 2025
Quantum computing, power systems, and communication represent three distinct fields that converge to address the complexities involved in the quantum cybersecurity of power systems. Quantum computers present a serious threat to cybersecurity by potentially affecting traditional encryption methods, which could compromise sensitive data and disrupt the integrity of secure communications. As communication and data transformation serve as the backbone of modern power grid monitoring, control, and protection systems, the growing awareness of cyber-vulnerabilities in power grids has made cybersecurity a pressing concern. The IEC 62351 standard family has been developed to provide security recommendations for various power system communication protocols and is emerging as a leading cybersecurity standard for power systems. However, the vulnerabilities of these standards to quantum threats have yet to be fully explored. This article conducts a comprehensive analysis of security threats and vulnerabilities in modern power systems against quantum attacks. It systematically reviews the security considerations outlined in IEC 62351 for safeguarding various aspects, such as IEC 61850 messages, key management, XML file security, and TCP/IP profiles. The analysis reveals that almost all encryption algorithms mandated and recommended by IEC 62351 are vulnerable to quantum attacks such as Grover's and Shor's algorithms.