In this generation, there are many important services like electricity, water, transportation, and communication. These services are joint through computer networks and are called the Critical Infrastructure. It makes our lives run smoothly without any difficulty. But as these services are becoming more useful in our lives, they are also becoming the target of cyberattacks.
Data is mostly protected by traditional encryption methods. This data can become insecure with quantum computers. The secure method for protecting system data is Quantum Key Distribution (QKD). A new technology that can secure the Critical Infrastructure from both current and upcoming cyber threats.
To know the importance, working, and applications of Quantum Key Distribution, read this full article for a better understanding.
What is Quantum Key Distribution (QKD)?
Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) is a method in which two individuals send and receive keys to secure the communication by using quantum mechanics. It is not traditional encryption, which uses mathematical algorithms. The best feature of quantum mechanics is that any interruption during the key exchange changes the particle’s position instantly to alert the spying presence.
Let’s see how Quantum Key Distribution secures the communication by exchanging key information.
Key Generation
Firstly, QKD creates a secret key. Then, quantum particles like photons analyze the information of the key. Every quantum particle can analyze a bit of data instead of 0 or 1 in quantum position. This method of key generation makes the key special and unexpected.
Key Transmission
When the key is generated then it is transmitted by a quantum channel like an optical fiber or large-space communication. The quantum features of the particles prevent the cyber attackers from interrupting the key without being discovered.
Spying Detection
The most important feature of QKD is the capability to detect spying. When a hacker tries to track the quantum particles during the transmission then their quantum position changes immediately. This instant change of the quantum position warns both sender and receiver that the key may be threatened.
Key Verification
After the key transmission, both parties verify its authenticity. Any discrepancies show the potential risks, and a new key is created if required. After the key verification, the key can be securely used to protect the sensitive communication.
This Quantum Key Distribution process keeps the encryption keys protected and even protects them from cyber attackers of quantum computers.
Why Critical Infrastructure Is Specifically Sensitive
Critical Infrastructure is specifically sensitive to cyber threats because it depends on digital systems, multiple networks, and old technologies. There are some reasons for the sensitivity of Critical Infrastructure to cyber threats. Let’s understand them briefly.
Heavy Dependency on Digital Networks
Electric grids, water supply systems, transmission networks, and communication systems all depend on computer networks. These dependency helps in tracking and controlling the system. A small risk in these systems can spread to different services, which can cause a big interference.
Rising Cyber Threats
Cyber criminals and official attackers continuously create new methods to attack the system’s default. The rising threats include malware, data theft, damage, and spying. Traditional encryption may not be capable of defending against these advanced threats.
Using Outdated Systems
Several important infrastructure networks still work with outdated systems. These systems may not have the advanced technology security features. They are mostly easy to hack, and this makes them a primary target of threats.
Risk of Major Threats
There are not only personal data threats but also Critical Infrastructure threats, which can cause damage to millions of people. The possible damages are to electricity, water, or transportation, which can trigger financial losses, public safety risks, and even political confusion. These systems should be secured first.
How QKD Secures Critical Infrastructure
QKD secures critical infrastructure by preventing the encryption keys from interruption, changes, or copying without tracking. This feature gives a future-proof protection solution. Quantum key distribution secures the critical infrastructure in different ways. The principle of this method is quantum mechanics, which offers features beyond traditional security methods.
Let’s explore in detail how QKD keeps the critical infrastructure secure.
Instant Spying Detection
The most important benefit of Quantum Key Distribution quantum properties is the ability to analyze any practically attempted spying. It means that users can quickly defend against threats. It enables users to protect their communication before it leaks.
QKD uses quantum particles like photons to exchange the encryption keys. These quantum particles stay in some particular quantum areas. It can not be monitored without any change. During transmission, if a hacker attempts to interfere, then these particles instantly alert the users about their presence. This instant detection at exact time reduces the risk of data breach.
Long-lasting Security
Upcoming quantum computers can easily break the traditional method of securing the keys. But having QKD security is enough to prevent the quantum attacks. This shows that even with the increasing technologies in the future, the data transferred through QKD will stay protected.
If a hacker has access to a powerful quantum computer, they still can not copy or analyze the keys without any detection. This feature makes Quantum Key Distribution the best solution for critical infrastructure. Power grids, water systems, and communication networks are some infrastructures that need a long-lasting security system.
Safe Communication Between Multiple Networks
Mostly, the Critical Infrastructure connects with different areas or departments for communication, and most of the time it communicates over long distances. Quantum Key Distribution provides these networks with a secure key exchange. It also manages it privately and with a network authentication system.
This security is very important because if the communication leaks, then it can interrupt the processes, which can lead to huge failures. Quantum Key Distribution provides a private and secure communication to keep the process commands, tracking data, and emergency signals perfect and original.
Adaptation with Current System
QKD has features that can easily adapt to the existing cybersecurity methods. It merges the traditional method with quantum-protected keys. Merging enables organizations to build a multiple security system. This method secures from both current and future cyber attacks.
QKD can be easily integrated with advanced communication networks like fiber-optic and satellite links. It keeps enough adaptability to protect several critical infrastructure areas without huge modifications.
Applying QKD for Critical Infrastructure
QKD can be applied in different areas to keep a protected and authentic process of important services. There are multiple services that require a secure network to communicate. Let’s explore them.
Power and Energy Areas
Power grids and energy supply networks are a primary target of cyber threats. Quantum Key Distribution can protect the communication of control centers, power plants, and energy stations. It prevents hackers from disrupting the electricity service areas.
Water and Waste Management
Water transportation systems depend on remote tracking and AI controls. QKD keeps water quality and distribution data secure. It prevents them from any disruption, changes, and possible public health outbreaks.
Transportation Systems
Transportation systems like Air traffic control, rail networks, and shipping systems need secure communication for protection and better performance. Communication channels of users can be secured by quantum key distribution (QKD). It can reduce the danger of cybercrime accidents.
Data Networks
Telecommunication companies manage the sensitive data of millions of users. These sensitive networks can be secured with QKD. It prevents spying and keeps the critical infrastructure communication hidden.
Economical Systems
Critical Infrastructure also includes banks and financial organizations because they manage a huge amount of sensitive data. Quantum key distribution…
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