In this episode, assistant professor Eleftheria Makri takes us from a classic 1980s cryptography puzzle to today’s urgent questions about data privacy, secure computation, and the looming impact of quantum computing. Through clear examples—from billionaire dinner bills to medical diagnostics—she shows how we can extract useful insights from data without ever exposing the data itself.
Makri explains why privacy isn’t about secrecy but about control, and how secure computation can unlock collaboration in fields like healthcare and finance without exposing sensitive data. She also highlights the urgency of preparing for a post‑quantum world, where today’s encrypted information could become tomorrow’s open book.
About Computers Don't Byte
Computer scientists who are at the forefront of their respected fields attempt to explain what on earth they're doing.
Computers don't byte is a series by the Leiden Institute of Advanced Computer Science (LIACS). Leading computer scientists from a variety of fields share their expertise and insights. Dive into the minds of these researchers and learn about real-world applications, the future of AI and related technologies and cutting-edge research. From chatbots to cybersecurity, from quantum to children's stories, each episode offers its own perspective on the changing landscape of computer science. Whether you're a seasoned professional or an aspiring enthusiast, this podcast offers knowledge and inspiration.
Content: LIACS
Host: Michiel van Poelgeest
Produced by: Studio Onzichtbaar