A quantum crypto device has finally been tested and demonstrated to the BBC. This will be interesting to see how the devices hold up. Quantum Crypto is based on an odd principle of quantum theory called the Heisenberg Uncertainty Principle. It states that the act of observing an experiment changes the outcome. The current model is communicating over fiber optic cable and can communicate with 5 locations in Vienna. Due to the above mentioned principal, if someone where to perform a MiTM attack or sniff the traffic it would change the outcome of the desired result. The system would then produce a very high rate of errors and once this is detected the system will automatically shut itself down to prevent the interception of any confidential data. They are claiming that this will be an un-breakable encryption and i agree if it truly conforms to the Heisenberg Uncertainty Principle then it should be unbreakable. It will be interesting to see how many government allow this technology within its borders once its perfected. Most governments want at least a backdoor or limit the encryption strength. They have made the system to be robust and to reroute itself incase a quantum link breaks down so not to loose data between the two links.
"We are constantly in touch with insurance companies and banks, and they say it's nearly better that they lose 10m euros than if the system is down for two hours, because that might be more damaging for the bank," said Dr Huebel.
But one thing I have learned in security .. never say you are unbreakable. It would be interesting to see if hackers find a flaw in quantum theory that physicists including Albert Einstein have overlooked for years.
Source: http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/science/nature/7661311.stm
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