Optimised Device-Independent Cryptography – ODIC

Over the past few decades, quantum cryptography has evolved into a commercially viable technology, with quantum key distribution (QKD) as its flagship application. QKD enables distant parties to exchange cryptographic keys whose security is guaranteed by the laws of quantum mechanics rather than computational assumptions. As large-scale deployment efforts gain momentum, critical questions regarding the practicality and security of these protocols arise, demanding new approaches beyond existing methods.

A key challenge lies in the reliance of standard QKD protocols on assumptions about physical hardware. Any deviation from these assumptions in real-world implementations can invalidate security proofs and expose vulnerabilities. Device-independent cryptographic protocols address this issue by ensuring security even when the quantum hardware is untrusted. While recent proof-of-principle demonstrations suggest that device-independent protocols are within technological reach, their current performance and maturity remain insufficient for practical applications.

The ODIC project aims to bridge this gap, transforming device-independent protocols into viable, high-security alternatives to conventional quantum cryptographic methods. Our approach focuses on optimizing the three core phases of device-independent cryptography: (I) data acquisition, (II) data preprocessing, and (III) security evaluation and postprocessing. By developing novel tools, more efficient protocols, and stronger security proofs, ODIC will not only enhance device-independent cryptography but also improve standard QKD protocols, accelerating the adoption of quantum cryptography as a high-security alternative to standard cryptography.