QKD privacy protection based on zero-knowledge proof and quantum signature
AnQi Chi, Lin Bi, Gopal Verma +1 more
Abstract As a cutting-edge quantum communication technology, quantum key distribution(QKD) is based on the basic principles of quantum mechanics, which guarantees its unconditional security in theory. Any attempt to eavesdrop will leave traces. However, in practical applications, there are also security issues such as attackers disguising themselves as legitimate users to establish contact with both parties in communication, intercepting quantum key distribution information, or possibly obtaining keys by eavesdropping or tampering with information in classical channels. In order to solve the above problems, this paper proposes a solution of introducing Chaum-Pedersen zero-knowledge proof and Gottesman-Chuang quantum signature in QKD. Before key distribution, the Chaum-Pedersen zero-knowledge proof is used to effectively verify the identities of both parties in communication, solve the problem of disguising as legitimate communication parties, and improve the security and credibility of communication. The Gottesman-Chuang quantum signature provides an unforgeable signature for messages or data in QKD, effectively preventing information from being tampered with or forged during transmission, and further strengthening the security of communication. This paper proves through simulation experiments of BB84 and E91 protocols that the security of enhanced QKD has been significantly improved by adding zero-knowledge proof and quantum signature. The key generation rate of enhanced BB84 has increased by 29.68\%, and that of enhanced E91 has increased by 28.26\%. The overall security performance has been significantly improved. Our solution has high superiority and feasibility.
•Jun 4, 2025•0 citations