University of Illinois Chicago electrical engineers have developed a new approach to improve wireless communication security using quantum physics. The researchers have created a unique, random fingerprint using an exceptional divergent point in quantum physics that creates a hardware encryption system that is virtually unbreakable, they said in a Nature Communications article.
The approach utilises radio frequency identification (RFID) systems, the technology used by access cards and key fobs to communicate with nearby sensors. Traditional RFID systems use encrypted keys stored inside memory chips which have a limited capacity and are vulnerable to attack.
Pai-Yen Chen and his colleagues devised a mathematical approach to identify the exceptional divergent points in a radio frequency identification system that each produces its own unique fingerprint using maximised uncertainty. As each piece of hardware is slightly different due to small variations during the manufacturing process, the cryptographic structure of each unique device strengthens its security, making it difficult for attackers to identify patterns or clone the device.
The new technology is low-cost and versatile, and suitable for products such as access cards and near-field communication devices that are mass-produced and more vulnerable to attack. This new approach shows the potential of using RF and analog technologies to significantly improve the security of wireless devices.
As new solutions inspired by quantum physics are developed, we can expect the emergence of new, stronger protection techniques that ensure the confidentiality of our communications and safeguard our personal data.
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