Security Vulnerabilities in Quantum Cloud Systems: A Survey on Emerging Threats
Justin Coupel, Tasnuva Farheen
TL;DR
This survey addresses security vulnerabilities in quantum cloud systems, with a central focus on multi-tenant environments and the classical-quantum interface. It synthesizes architecture, threat vectors such as crosstalk, side-channels, and insider risks, and evaluates their impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability. The authors catalog existing mitigation approaches (e.g., camouflaging, logic locking, zero-trust, and encryption) and identify major research gaps, particularly around low-overhead protections for the interface and robust defenses against multi-tenant exploits. The work provides a structured taxonomy and risk assessments to guide researchers and quantum cloud providers toward secure and resilient QCaaS deployments and future research directions.
Abstract
Quantum computing is becoming increasingly widespread due to the potential and capabilities to solve complex problems beyond the scope of classical computers. As Quantum Cloud services are adopted by businesses and research groups, they allow for greater progress and application in many fields. However, the inherent vulnerabilities of these environments pose significant security concerns. This survey delivers a comprehensive analysis of the security challenges that emerged in quantum cloud systems, with a distinct focus on multi-tenant vulnerabilities and the classical-quantum interface. Key threats such as crosstalk attacks, quantum-specific side-channel vulnerabilities, and insider threats are all examined, as well as their effects on the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of quantum circuits. The design and implementation of various quantum architectures from quantum cloud providers are also discussed. In addition, this paper delves into emerging quantum security solutions and best practices to mitigate these risks. This survey offers insights into current research gaps and proposes future directions for secure and resilient quantum cloud infrastructures.