Simultaneous quantum identity authentication scheme utilizing entanglement swapping with secret key preservation

TL;DR

This paper presents a new quantum identity authentication protocol using entanglement swapping and a third-party mediator, providing secure simultaneous authentication with rigorous security analysis against various attacks.

Contribution

A novel quantum identity authentication scheme based on controlled secure direct quantum communication with entanglement swapping, enhancing security and efficiency over existing protocols.

Findings

Protocol withstands impersonation, intercept-resend, and fraudulent attacks.

Provides secure simultaneous authentication for two users.

Demonstrates advantages over similar existing protocols.

Abstract

Unconditional security in quantum key distribution (QKD) relies on authenticating the identities of users involved in key distribution. While classical identity authentication schemes were initially utilized in QKD implementations, concerns regarding their vulnerability have prompted the exploration of quantum identity authentication (QIA) protocols. In this study, we introduce a new protocol for QIA, derived from the concept of controlled secure direct quantum communication. Our proposed scheme facilitates simultaneous authentication between two users, Alice and Bob, leveraging Bell states with the assistance of a third party, Charlie. Through rigorous security analysis, we demonstrate that the proposed protocol withstands various known attacks, including impersonation, intercept and resend and impersonated fraudulent attacks. Additionally, we establish the relevance of the proposed protocol by comparing it with the existing protocols of similar type.