Vehicle-Server Communication Security With Post-Quantum Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current cryptographic methods used in vehicle communication systems, such as RSA and ECC, are vulnerable to post-quantum threats from quantum computers, posing a security risk that cannot be reliably mitigated by existing post-quantum-resistant methods, and symmetrical methods are not flexible enough for large vehicle ecosystems.
Innovation Solution
Implement a flexible communication system with multiple interfaces: a first interface for deactivating non-post-quantum-resistant methods, a second interface for introducing post-quantum-resistant methods, a third interface for secure key material transmission, and a fourth interface for irreversible deactivation, ensuring seamless transition to post-quantum-resistant security.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional asymmetrical cryptographic methods (RSA, ECC) are used for securing vehicle communication, then current security requirements are met with minimized effort, but the system becomes vulnerable to post-quantum threats from quantum computers
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements dynamic cryptographic method selection, allowing the vehicle's communication system to switch between conventional and post-quantum-resistant cryptographic methods based on the operational context and threat level. This enables the system to adapt its security approach rather than being fixed to a single method.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the cryptographic parameters by introducing post-quantum-resistant algorithms as an alternative to conventional methods. The system can adjust which cryptographic parameter set (conventional or post-quantum) is active based on security requirements and quantum threat assessments.
2Reliability
If post-quantum-resistant asymmetrical cryptographic methods are implemented now, then future security against quantum computers is ensured, but resource requirements increase and the methods are not yet mature or standardized
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically selects between conventional and post-quantum-resistant cryptographic methods based on operational needs. Post-quantum methods are not permanently deployed but activated only when required, reducing overall resource consumption while maintaining security readiness.
Solution Approach 2:
The system prepares for post-quantum threats by pre-configuring the capability to use post-quantum-resistant methods, but these methods remain dormant until activated. This preliminary preparation ensures readiness without permanently bearing the resource cost of implementing unproven cryptographic systems.
3Reliability
If a switch to post-quantum-resistant methods is implemented, then long-term security is guaranteed, but the transition process requires multiple secure interfaces and irreversible deactivation mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The transition mechanism is segmented into multiple distinct interfaces: a first interface for deactivating conventional methods, a second interface for introducing post-quantum methods, a third interface for key material transmission, and a fourth interface for irreversible deactivation. This segmentation allows each interface to have a specific, simplified function while collectively achieving the complex transition goal.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces intermediary mechanisms such as secure key material transmission interfaces and irreversible deactivation flags that mediate the transition between cryptographic methods. These intermediaries ensure security during the transition process without requiring the entire system to be redesigned at once.
4Reliability
If symmetrical cryptographic methods are used, then post-quantum resistance can be achieved with increased key lengths, but the methods are not flexible enough for large vehicle ecosystems
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically selects between symmetrical and asymmetrical cryptographic methods depending on the specific communication context. Symmetrical methods with increased key lengths are used when post-quantum resistance is the priority, while asymmetrical methods provide flexibility in the vehicle ecosystem when quantum threats are not the primary concern.
Solution Approach 2:
The cryptographic system is designed to support multiple types of methods (symmetrical and asymmetrical) within a single framework, making it universally applicable to different scenarios in the vehicle ecosystem. This multi-functionality allows the system to adapt to both post-quantum security requirements and ecosystem flexibility needs.
Data Source
AI summary
Communications between a communication system of a vehicle and an external server external via a communication interface are secured such that data is transmitted to the communication system with integrity and authenticity protection, and also confidentially where necessary. A first securing method for the non-post-quantum-resistant securing of exchanged data is implemented, a second securing method for the post-quantum-resistant securing of exchanged data is implemented or is able to be implemented. Key material for the second securing method is initially introduced in the communication system and is stored securely or is able to be introduced via a further interface with cryptographic encryption and is securely stored for exclusive use in the second securing method.