QUANTUM CRYPTOGRAPHY AND THE FUTURE OF FINANCIAL SECURITY: ETHICAL AND GOVERNANCE CHALLENGES

Abstract

Quantum cryptography is poised to transform cybersecurity in the financial sector, with post-quantum cryptography (PQC) and quantum key distribution (QKD) promising new resilience against quantum-enabled attacks. However, adopting these technologies introduces complex ethical and governance challenges that remain underexplored. This paper investigates the ethical and governance risks posed by PQC and QKD in international financial transactions. Through a critical review of peer-reviewed studies and industry reports, this analysis identifies pressing concerns such as privacy violations, stakeholder power imbalances, and regulatory fragmentation. Research gaps include limited focus on cross-border ethical considerations, stakeholder influence, and the long-term societal impacts of quantum control by governments and corporations. The study concludes that coordinated global standards and robust ethical frameworks are essential to ensure both security and fairness in quantum-era financial systems, underscoring the urgent need for interdisciplinary collaboration as quantum technology reshapes global finance.