Trojan Taxonomy in Quantum Computing

TL;DR

This paper introduces the first structured taxonomy of Trojans specific to quantum computing, categorizing potential attack vectors, types, and payloads across the quantum stack to enhance threat modeling and security strategies.

Contribution

It develops a comprehensive taxonomy of quantum Trojans, addressing a gap in security frameworks for quantum information systems and aiding in threat detection and mitigation.

Findings

Enumerates attack vectors across quantum hardware and software

Classifies Trojan types and payloads in quantum systems

Provides insights for threat modeling and security practices

Abstract

Quantum computing introduces unfamiliar security vulnerabilities demanding customized threat models. Hardware and software Trojans pose serious concerns needing rethinking from classical paradigms. This paper develops the first structured taxonomy of Trojans tailored to quantum information systems. We enumerate potential attack vectors across the quantum stack from hardware to software layers. A categorization of quantum Trojan types and payloads is outlined ranging from reliability degradation, functionality corruption, backdoors, and denial-of-service. Adversarial motivations behind quantum Trojans are analyzed. By consolidating diverse threats into a unified perspective, this quantum Trojan taxonomy provides insights guiding threat modeling, risk analysis, detection mechanisms, and security best practices customized for this novel computing paradigm.