QUANTUM SECURITY IN WEB 4.0: A NEW STAGE IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE METAVERSE

The rapid advancement of Web 4.0, or the Symbiotic Web, marks a pivotal shift in the evolution of the Internet, characterized by immersive digital experiences and intelligent, decentralized ecosystems. This paper explores the intersection of Web 4.0, the Metaverse, and quantum security, focusing on the urgent need to secure digital infrastructures against the growing threat of quantum computing. As the Metaverse becomes a dynamic driver of digital transformation and economic development, the integration of post-quantum cryptography and quantum-resistant systems is essential for ensuring data privacy, digital sovereignty, and cyber resilience. The study examines key technological trends - including AI, blockchain, XR, and the Industrial Metaverse - within the context of current geopolitical risks, particularly the war in Ukraine. It highlights international quantum strategies, post-quantum encryption standards, and emerging architectures such as quantum blockchain. The authors argue that a proactive approach to quantum security is imperative for safeguarding future virtual environments, emphasizing Ukraine’s strategic opportunity to build a robust and ethical quantum ecosystem.