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arXiv:1803.04520quant-ph

Is the security of quantum cryptography guaranteed by the laws of physics?

Daniel J. Bernstein

Abstract

It is often claimed that the security of quantum key distribution (QKD) is guaranteed by the laws of physics. However, this claim is content-free if the underlying theoretical definition of QKD is not actually compatible with the laws of physics. This paper observes that (1) the laws of physics pose serious obstacles to the security of QKD and (2) the same laws are ignored in all QKD "security proofs".

arXiv comments
Journal reference
DOI
Subjects
quant-phQuantum Physics cs.CRCryptography and Security

On Hacker News

Linked by 2 identifiable commenters in 3 comments across 3 threads, from Jul 2018 to Apr 2026. Found in 1 HN submission from Jun 2020 to Jun 2020. Open submission discussions.

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Discussed in comments3 threads

  1. Will you heed my warnings now? 1 comment
  2. Portugal signs up to EU quantum communication infrastructure initiative 1 comment

    • DJB and Tanja Lange believe that Quantum Key Distribution is snake oil cryptography not based on the "law of physics" as its proponents say it is: https://twitter.com/hashbreaker/status/689115480267816960 https://arxiv.org/abs/1803.04520

      mtgxView on HNParent context

  3. Cambridge launches UK’s first quantum network 1 comment

    • Here's a start (hint: they're not "unhackable" nor are they actually "guaranteed by the laws of physics") https://twitter.com/hashbreaker/status/689115480267816960 https://arxiv.org/abs/1803.04520

      mtgxView on HNParent context

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