Skip to main navigation Skip to search Skip to main content

Modulator vulnerability in continuous-variable quantum key distribution

  • Palacký University Olomouc

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingArticle in proceedingsResearchpeer-review

56 Downloads (Orbit)

Abstract

Encoding of key bits in the quadratures of the electromagnetic light field is an essential part of any continuous-variable quantum key distribution system. However, flaws of practical implementation can make such systems susceptible to leakage of secret information. We verify a side channel presence in an optical in-phase and quadrature modulator which is caused by limited suppression of a quantum information-carrying sideband. We investigate various strategies an unauthorized third party can exploit the vulnerability in a proof-of-concept experiment and theoretically assess the modulation leakage effect on a security of the Gaussian coherent-state continuous-variable quantum key distribution protocol and show that the leakage reduces the range of conditions which support secure key generation. Without the control of sideband modulation in practical in-phase and quadrature modulator-based systems the security can be compromised.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationProceedings of SPIE
Number of pages5
PublisherSPIE - International Society for Optical Engineering
Publication date2022
Article number122740R
ISBN (Electronic)9781510655515
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2022
EventSPIE Security + Defence 2022 - Berlin, Germany
Duration: 5 Sept 20228 Sept 2022

Conference

ConferenceSPIE Security + Defence 2022
Country/TerritoryGermany
CityBerlin
Period05/09/202208/09/2022
SeriesProceedings of SPIE - The International Society for Optical Engineering
Volume12274
ISSN0277-786X

Keywords

  • Coherent states
  • Continuous-Variable Quantum Key Disribution
  • Heterodyne detection
  • IQ modulator
  • Side channels

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Modulator vulnerability in continuous-variable quantum key distribution'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this