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Lecture notes of the Institute for Computer Sciences, Social Informatics and Telecommunications Engineering

Comprehensive Classification and Analysis of Cyber Attack Surface on Quantum Key Distribution Networks

Ivan Cvitić, Dragan Peraković, Josip Vladava

Published Sep 4, 2025• 0 citations
Publisher
DOI
10.1007/978-3-031-94445-1_20

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The article develops a comprehensive threat model for hybrid quantum-secured communication channels of corporate networks operating under conditions of multi-vector cyberattacks and highly dynamic threat scenarios.An analysis of the vulnerabilities of the electronic communication infrastructure is conducted, taking into account the synergistic interaction of classical cryptographic protocols, post-quantum cryptographic protection algorithms, and quantum key distribution technologies.Special attention is paid to the investigation of attack vectors aimed at compromising the processes of key information management, authentication, and the establishment of secure connections in hybrid network environments.A multi-level classification of threats is proposed, covering the physical, data link, network, transport, and application layers of the OSI model, as well as a separate category of threats caused by the use of quantum computing resources by a potential attacker.Specific attack scenarios are considered, including quantum-enhanced cryptanalytic methods, attacks on the hardware implementation of quantum protocols, the compromise of trusted nodes, and the impact on key distribution channels.The paper analyzes software and hardware mechanisms for ensuring the cryptographic strength and fault tolerance of hybrid communication channels, in particular, mechanisms for dynamic key information management, the integration of quantum key distribution protocols into corporate telecommunication environments, and the application of post-quantum cryptographic primitives to protect control and user data.Architectural solutions are proposed for the orchestration of cryptographic services, security status monitoring, and adaptive reconfiguration of security mechanisms in real time.Based on the obtained results, a generalized protection model for hybrid quantum-secured communication channels is formed, aimed at increasing the level of information security, cyber resilience, and the continuity of corporate networks functioning under the conditions of complex combined attacks and the transition to the quantum computing era.
Quantum computing is a game-changing technology that affects modern cryptography and security systems including distributed energy resources (DERs) systems. Since the new quantum era is coming soon in 5–10 years, it is crucial to prepare and develop quantum-safe DER systems. This paper provides a comprehensive review of vulnerabilities caused by quantum computing attacks, potential defense strategies, and remaining challenges for DER networks. First, new security vulnerabilities and attack models of the cyber-physical DER systems caused by quantum computing attacks are explored. Moreover, this paper introduces potential quantum attack defense strategies including Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) and Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC), which can be applied to DER networks and evaluates defense strategies. Finally, remaining research opportunities and challenges for next-generation quantum-safe DER are discussed.