# Remote Document Encryption - encrypting data for e-passport holders

## TL;DR

This paper introduces a method for encrypting data specifically for e-passport holders, ensuring only physical possession of the passport can decrypt the data, with implications for security and legal considerations.

## Contribution

It presents a novel encryption scheme tailored for e-passports and similar IDs, including the concept of RDE Extraction PIN, enhancing security and practical applications.

## Key findings

- Dutch passports offer 160-bit security, surpassing 128-bit standards.
- The RDE Extraction PIN provides security comparable to a regular PIN.
- Carrying passports abroad may conflict with cryptography export laws.

## Abstract

We show how any party can encrypt data for an e-passport holder such that only with physical possession of the e-passport decryption is possible. The same is possible for electronic identity cards and driver licenses. We also indicate possible applications. Dutch passports allow for 160 bit security, theoretically giving sufficient security beyond the year 2079, exceeding current good practice of 128 bit security. We also introduce the notion of RDE Extraction PIN which effectively provides the same security as a regular PIN. Our results ironically suggest that carrying a passport when traveling abroad might violate export or import laws on strong cryptography.