'Unbreakable' encryption introduced

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the introduction of quantum cryptography and its claims of providing unbreakable encryption. Participants explore the implications of this technology, questioning its effectiveness and addressing potential vulnerabilities. The scope includes theoretical considerations, practical applications, and critiques of the technology's claims.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants express enthusiasm about quantum cryptography, suggesting it may offer true unbreakability compared to previous claims.
  • Others argue that no encryption can be considered "unbreakable" by definition, raising questions about the implications of breaking such encryption.
  • There are assertions that even with quantum encryption, vulnerabilities remain, such as susceptibility to "man in the middle" attacks.
  • Some participants critique the technology as merely providing secure fiber links rather than true encryption, suggesting it addresses a problem that may not be significant in the context of modern encryption methods like AES.
  • Concerns are raised about the practicality of the technology, with some suggesting that it may not provide substantial benefits over existing solutions.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally disagree on the effectiveness and implications of quantum cryptography, with multiple competing views regarding its potential as unbreakable encryption and its practical applications.

Contextual Notes

Limitations include assumptions about the definitions of "unbreakable" and the specific contexts in which quantum cryptography may or may not be effective. The discussion also highlights unresolved concerns regarding potential vulnerabilities and the practical utility of the technology.

Greg Bernhardt
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I think this is the perfect place to discuss the possibilities of quantum cryptography. It seems to have become a reality now. Let's discuss whether this truly is unbreakable! We've heard it before, but is it different this time?

Perfect secrecy has come a step closer with the launch of the world's first computer network protected by unbreakable quantum encryption at a scientific conference in Vienna.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/sci/tech/7661311.stm
 
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Technology news on Phys.org
No encryption can be "unbreakable."

This holds by definition.
 
shoehorn said:
No encryption can be "unbreakable."

This holds by definition.

So if someone could break it then that would mean we have to rewrite the science books?
 
shoehorn said:
No encryption can be "unbreakable."

This holds by definition.

One-time pad? Quantum entanglement?
 
It's not encryption it's only secure fibre links - this is not new (although the range might be a record)
It does however solve a problem that isn't the problem - it stops you being able to eavesdrop on a fibre by patching into the fibre.
If you have traffic data encrypted with modern algorithms like AES this isn't a problem.
The main drawback is that you can still eavesdrop everytime it goes through a switch or router - this technique only works for a single unbroken length of single mode fibre between two points.
 
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I don't see how this would protect from a "man in the middle" attack either. It seems a lot of effort for little benefit.
 
It doesn't.

It's the classic security thing - a technology solution to a human problem.
eg. the cleaners found someone's password in the trash: solution double the number of bits in the encryption.
 

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