IESBA releases podcast on the ethical implications of quantum computers

Hear from Director of Policy Leadership, James Barbour CA on the power of quantum computers and the possible impact they will have on ethical dilemmas.

You may remember the late ‘80s, early ‘90s, sci programme ‘Quantum Leap’. It was the first time I’d heard of the term ‘quantum’. Nearly 40 years later, the same phrase has made a major return to the technology front. Unfortunately, at least from my perspective, there are no plans to revisit what was once an excellent TV show, one I always looked forward to. There are plans, however, to release quantum computers within the next few years.

The International Ethics Standards Board for Accountants (IESBA) recently launched a new podcast series, ‘Decoding Ethics: Building trust in a tech-driven world’. There’s an excellent episode that focuses on the potential impact of quantum computing on ethical dilemmas. This features Clinton Firth, Cybersecurity and Digital Trust Partner at PwC, being interviewed by podcast host, Jeanne Viljoen, a Principal at IESBA.

The first commercial quantum computer is expected in 2029. In an initial assessment, Clinton didn't find any new specific ethical threats for professional accountants yet. However, he does expect those existing risks - like threats to encryption - to grow.

When, or if, quantum computers are ever released, they’ll provide an extraordinary leap in computing power - beyond what any of us are used to. Take a maze for example. Why try all the possible escape routes one by one when you can try them all at the same time. That, in simplistic terms, is the difference between a traditional computer and a quantum computer. A traditional computer uses bits, which represent either a 0 or 1, while quantum computers rely on quantum bits (qubits) that use superposition. This allows qubits to exist as 0, 1, or both at the same time, allowing quantum computers to process multiple possibilities simultaneously, rather than checking each one in sequence.

I’ve tried not to provide too many spoilers to ruin your enjoyment, but it’s now time for Jeanne and Clinton to provide you with just under 30 minutes of quality ethics continuing professional development (CPD) time. 

Watch the podcast:

 

Read more about the UK’s plans for quantum technology.