Risk analysis of Trojan-horse attacks on practical quantum key distribution systems

Jain N, Stiller B, Khan I, Makarov V, Marquardt C, Leuchs G (2015)

Publication Type: Journal article

Publication year: 2015

Journal

Book Volume: 21

Pages Range: 168-177

Article Number: 6948230

Journal Issue: 3

DOI: 10.1109/JSTQE.2014.2365585

Abstract

An eavesdropper Eve may probe a quantum key distribution (QKD) system by sending a bright pulse from the quantum channel into the system and analyzing the back-reflected pulses. Such Trojan-horse attacks can breach the security of the QKD system, if appropriate safeguards are not installed or if they can be fooled by the Eve. We present a risk analysis of such attacks based on extensive spectral measurements, such as transmittance, reflectivity, and detection sensitivity of some critical components used in a typical QKD systems. Our results indicate the existence of wavelength regimes, where the attacker gains considerable advantage as compared to launching an attack at 1550 nm. We also propose countermeasures to reduce the risk of such attacks.

Authors with CRIS profile

Involved external institutions

University of Waterloo (UW) Canada (CA)

How to cite

APA:

Jain, N., Stiller, B., Khan, I., Makarov, V., Marquardt, C., & Leuchs, G. (2015). Risk analysis of Trojan-horse attacks on practical quantum key distribution systems. IEEE Journal of Selected Topics in Quantum Electronics, 21(3), 168-177. https://doi.org/10.1109/JSTQE.2014.2365585

MLA:

Jain, Nitin, et al. "Risk analysis of Trojan-horse attacks on practical quantum key distribution systems." IEEE Journal of Selected Topics in Quantum Electronics 21.3 (2015): 168-177.

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