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On the security and confidentiality of quantum key distribution

Al‐Batool Al‐Ghamdi, Ameenah Al-Sulami, Asia Othman Aljahdali

Published May 28, 2020• 21 citations
Publisher

Abstract

Abstract Cryptography is a scientific method that is used to transmit secret information. In contrast, quantum cryptography depends on physical laws to encrypt information; when the quantum computer appeared, the classic encryption method becomes inefficient. The quantum method is commonly used to distribute keys, a process called as quantum key distribution (QKD). In this paper, we consider the efficiency of the quantum method compared to classical methods. Also, we discuss the security of QKD against several attacks and provide security analysis based on probabilistic models. Additionally, the paper explains how to encrypt random numbers into a sequence of photons using a QKD system for the distribution of a key. This research demonstrates the efficiency and security of QKD in sending and distributing keys between communication parties. Thus, both the sender and the receiver would be able to obtain a security key using the quantum method rather than classical methods.

DOI
10.1002/spy2.111

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Abstract Cryptography is a scientific method that is used to transmit secret information. In contrast, quantum cryptography depends on physical laws to encrypt information; when the quantum computer appeared, the classic encryption method becomes inefficient. The quantum method is commonly used to distribute keys, a process called as quantum key distribution (QKD). In this paper, we consider the efficiency of the quantum method compared to classical methods. Also, we discuss the security of QKD against several attacks and provide security analysis based on probabilistic models. Additionally, the paper explains how to encrypt random numbers into a sequence of photons using a QKD system for the distribution of a key. This research demonstrates the efficiency and security of QKD in sending and distributing keys between communication parties. Thus, both the sender and the receiver would be able to obtain a security key using the quantum method rather than classical methods.
Quantum cryptography provides secret communication, which offers various security factors like confidentiality, integrity, and authentication assurance based on the law of physics. The law of physics states that quantum computing can also be applied into the communication sector, which is particularly in the field of cryptography. Then quantum can significantly distribute the data securely by applying quantum key distribution (QKD), quantum key sharing, etc. In the classical cryptography, it is difficult to compute secret keys using security concepts like key exchange and authentication, etc., and it fails to provide adequate protection during data communication as it needs some effective computation in terms of security. The lack of security in the data communication can be overcome by using the concept of quantum computing. Generally, in quantum computing, elementary quantum systems like polarized photons are used to transmit digital information based on the principle of uncertainty as it gives rise to a significant phenomenon of effective security in terms of communication compared to existing concepts related to cryptography. In quantum computing, the detection ratio for identifying the data which are sent through a communication channel is more difficult as it uses qubits and photons to represent the data that are sent. Quantum channels are used to distribute the information between two users as it passes through the unprotected classical channels as it is unknown to anyone else. Assuming that Alice and Bob use a latent noise channel to send a key, reconciliation is the process of correcting errors between Alice and Bob’s version of the key. This is done by public discussion, which leaks some information about the secret key to an undercover. This chapter gives a discussion on QKD concepts as it helps to provide a secure communication, where the information is broadcasting through a quantum channel. Finally, the various existing quantum protocols are described in relation to some security measures based on QKD, and the standard QKD protocol of BB84 is discussed.
As the world becomes more computerized, keeping data transfer safe has become very important. Quantum computers and other strong computers have the ability to break classical encryption methods, even though they are widely used. Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) is a new way to protect data. It uses quantum physics to make sure that the sharing of cryptographic keys is safe. The aim of this study is to look into how QKD can be used to improve the security of data transfer. The suggested method combines QKD with current encryption standards to create a safe and effective way to send data. The method includes setting up a key sharing system based on QKD and then using symmetric encryption algorithms to keep the data being sent safe. The system is tried in different communication settings to see how well it protects against spying and "man-in-the-middle" attacks. The study's results show that QKD greatly improves the safety of sending data by keeping the cryptography keys secret. The results show that QKD has the potential to stop people from getting in without permission and find any attempts to change the keys while they are being sent out. The table below shows performance numbers that show how well QKD works in real-world situations. It shows how well communication speeds and security measures compare.
Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) which is the name of cryptography in quantum environment act as the highest developed area in quantum communication and computing technology (QCIT). \n \nQKD is inventive technology which utilize the laws of quantum to create a cryptographic share key to make the communication system secure. The unique feature of QKD assures eavesdropping detectable during quantum communications which is fascinating for a high-level secure environment.Most of the traditional cryptographic methods which we use currently are based on mathematical scheme or Computational complexity theory which are not completely safe. Using quantum cryptography has been achieved extensive steps in communication security establishment. As the information Unit has been changed from “bit” to Quantum bit (Qubit), a new element has been offered that can guarantee the shared information confidentiality between parties. The confidentiality of system is established via exchanging a secret key through a channel of quantum, the key which we use for encrypting the shared data. This structure has quantum integration which has been developed by physics law and techniques of cryptography. \n \nThis thesis has proposed a modified version of QKD protocol, this new protocol will generate a cryptographic share key for a more efficient, lower cost and secure communication between two parties (sender and Receiver). This new protocol principal is similar to BBM92, but the source of photon moved to sender instead of third-party photon generator, following steps will be executed in this Experiment: \n \n•\tObserve different categories protocols of QKD in details \n•\tThe Quantum Mechanics Visualisation Project (QuVis) is the simulation software that has been used for implementing the proposed protocol [BB84 with spin] among the other three (BBM92, B92 and BB84). \n•\tProbability ratio of error will be tested and compared for all protocols, for this experiment 100 to 5000 photons will be sent. \n \nBy Analysing collected data in this experiment, it will be determined which one of this four protocols lead the detecting of eavesdropping. Simulation software accomplishes the value of error key probability which receiver can use and should not pass over the range limit of 0.25 & 0.5.
Cryptography is an unexpected revolution in information security in the recent decades, where remarkable improvements have been created to provide confidentiality and integrity. Quantum cryptography is one such improvement that has grown rapidly since the first announced protocol. Quantum cryptography contains substantial elements that must be addressed to ensure secure communication between legitimate parties. Quantum key distribution (QKD), a technique for creating a secret key, is one of the most interesting areas in quantum cryptography. This paper reviews some well-known quantum key distribution techniques that have been demonstrated in the past three decades. Furthermore, this paper discusses the process of creating a secret key using quantum mechanics and cryptography methods. Moreover, it explains the relationships between many basic aspects of QKD protocols and suggests some improvements in the cryptosystem. An accurate quantitative comparison between the QKD protocols is presented, especially the runtime execution for each QKD protocol. In addition, the paper will demonstrate a general model of each considered QKD protocol based on security principles.
Cryptography literally means “The art & science of secret writing & sending a message between two parties in such a way that its contents cannot be understood by someone other than the intended recipient. ” and Quantum word is related with “Light”. Thus, Quantum Cryptography is a way of descripting any information in the form of quantum particles. There are no classical cryptographic systems which are perfectly secure. In contrast to Classical cryptography which depends upon Mathematics, Quantum Cryptography utilizes the concepts of Quantum Physics which provides us the security against the cleverest marauders of the present age. In the view of increasing need of Network and Information Security, we do require methods to overcome the Molecular Computing technologies (A future technology) and other techniques of the various codebrakers. Both the parts i.e. Quantum Key distribution and Information transference from Sender to Receiver are much efficient and secure. It is based upon BB84 protocol. It can be of great use for Govt. agencies such as Banks, Insurance, Brokerages firms, financial institutions, e-commerce and most important is the Defense & security of any country. It is a Cryptographic communication system in which the original users can detect unauthorized eavesdropper and in addition it gives a guarantee of no eavesdropping. It proves to be the ultra secure mode of communication b/w two intended parties.
Secure communication between senders and recipients is made easier by cryptography. Conventional encryption techniques rely on either publicly accessible keys or privately owned keys. The confidentiality of the message is placed in danger, though, as eavesdroppers can intercept these keys. Using a specific kind of quantum mechanics, quantum cryptography ensures that messages are sent with complete security. One of the main components is Quantum Key Distribution (QKD), which distributes random binary keys so that parties can identify possible listening devices. This paper also looks at classical cryptography, DES and some limits and application areas of quantum cryptography.