"NUS Researchers Bring Attack-Proof Quantum Communication Two Steps Forward"

The secure communication method, Quantum Key Distribution (QKD), uses particles of light known as photons to encode data in quantum bits, which are transmitted to a sender and receiver in the form of an encryption key. Although the security of QKD is said to be unbreakable in principle, attackers could still steal important information if it is not implemented correctly. Malicious actors could perform side-channel attacks in which they exploit vulnerabilities in the setup of the information system to eavesdrop on the exchange of secret keys. Researchers at the National University of Singapore (NUS) have developed a theoretical method and experimental method to protect QKD communications from side-channel attacks. The first method is an ultra-secure cryptography protocol that can be used in any communication network requiring long-term security. According to the researchers, the new protocol is easier to set up and is more tolerant to noise and loss than the original device-independent QKD protocol. The new protocol also provides the highest level of security allowable by quantum communications and empowers users to independently verify their own key generation devices. The team’s setup allows all information systems built with device-independent QKD to be guarded against misconfiguration and poor implementation. The other method involves the use of a first-of-its-kind quantum power limiter device that defends QKD systems against bright light pulse attacks. The NUS team says its power limiter is highly cost-effective and can be easily manufactured with off-the-shelf components. Their device also does not need any power. Therefore, this device can be easily added to any quantum cryptography system to bolster the security of its implementation. This article continues to discuss the two methods developed by NUS researchers to protect QKD communications against side-channel attacks and the importance of closing the gap between the theory and practice of quantum secure communications. 

NUS reports "NUS Researchers Bring Attack-Proof Quantum Communication Two Steps Forward"