ISRO demonstrates hack-proof quantum communication

Context

Recently, Scientists from Ahmedabad-based Space Applications Centre and Physical Research Laboratory have successfully demonstrated Quantum Entanglement. 

What is Quantum Communication?

• Quantum communication is one of the safest ways of connecting two places with high levels of code and quantum cryptography that cannot be decrypted or broken by an external entity. 
• If a hacker tries to crack the message in quantum communication, it changes its form in such a manner that would alert the sender and would cause the message to be altered or deleted.

About this technology

• Quantum computing refers to a new era of faster and more powerful computers, and the theory goes that they would be able to break current levels of encryption.
• QKD works by using photons — the particles which transmit light — to transfer data.
• QKD allows two distant users, who do not share a long secret key initially, to produce a common, random string of secret bits, called a secret key.
• Using the one-time pad encryption this key is proven to be secure to encrypt and decrypt a message, which can then be transmitted over a standard communication channel.

Significance 

• The encryption is “unbreakable” and that’s mainly because of the way data is carried via the photon. 
• A photon cannot be perfectly copied and any attempt to measure it will disturb it. This means that a person trying to intercept the data will leave a trace.
• The implications could be huge for cybersecurity, making businesses safer, but also making it more difficult for governments to hack into communication.