Quantum-Safe Payment System Using QKD and Distributed Ledger
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current cryptographic protocols used in financial transactions and data security are vulnerable to attacks from universal quantum computers, which can potentially crack classical cryptography codes and compromise secure data.
Innovation Solution
A quantum-safe payment system is implemented using a quantum cloud platform that combines a security layer via Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) network with a data distribution layer based on distributed ledger technology, ensuring secure storage, transmission, and access to digital data.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional cryptographic protocols are used for financial transactions, then current security standards are maintained, but vulnerability to quantum computer attacks increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by transitioning from conventional cryptographic algorithms to post-quantum cryptographic algorithms that are resistant to quantum computer attacks. This involves changing the mathematical foundations and key parameters of the cryptographic protocols to ensure security against quantum threats while maintaining compatibility with existing financial transaction systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements preliminary action by proactively updating cryptographic protocols before quantum computers become a practical threat. This advance preparation includes deploying post-quantum cryptographic algorithms now, while quantum computing technology is still developing, to prevent future security breaches and protect financial transactions from anticipated quantum attacks.
2Reliability
If quantum-safe cryptographic algorithms are implemented, then protection against quantum attacks is achieved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a cryptographic system that can handle both conventional and post-quantum cryptographic algorithms within a single framework. This multi-functional approach allows the financial transaction system to support multiple cryptographic protocols, enabling seamless transition and interoperability while managing complexity through unified system architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary layer that manages cryptographic operations, acting as a mediator between the financial transaction system and the underlying cryptographic algorithms. This intermediary abstraction layer simplifies the interface for applications while handling the complexity of post-quantum cryptographic implementations, including key management and algorithm selection.
3Reliability
If post-quantum cryptographic algorithms are used, then future security is ensured, but current transaction processing efficiency may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies partial action by implementing post-quantum cryptographic algorithms selectively for transactions that require enhanced security, rather than forcing all transactions to use the more computationally intensive algorithms. This allows the system to maintain high processing speeds for standard transactions while providing quantum-safe options for sensitive or high-value transactions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamics by making the cryptographic algorithm selection adaptive and flexible. The system can dynamically choose between conventional and post-quantum algorithms based on transaction characteristics, security requirements, and performance considerations. This dynamic approach optimizes the balance between security and processing efficiency in real-time.
Data Source
AI summary
A computer-implemented method of secure quantum safe (QS) payments using a quantum cloud payment platform, the method, performed by the quantum cloud payment platform, comprising: receiving one or more quantum safe deposit payment transactions from one or more endpoint devices of one or more registered users, each QS deposit payment transaction of a user comprising data representative of a deposit fiat cash value; transferring each of the deposit fiat cash values from a bank account associated with a user and linked to the QS payment account of the user to a quantum cloud account for pooling each of the deposit fiat cash values; for each deposit fiat cash value transferred in relation to a user of an endpoint device, performing: converting said each deposit fiat cash value to a corresponding number of quantum money tokens; linking said number of quantum money tokens to the QS payment account of the user; and sending said number of quantum money tokens to the endpoint device of the user for updating an electronic wallet of said user.