Making large-scale quantum computing a practical reality required identifying a series of simple, incremental changes that would keep the security of 5G (and thus 3G and 4G) from being compromised. For this, it is necessary to take advantage of the backward compatibility features of 5G security system design by centering a multi-stage approach and upgrade the security system that will allow a simple and seamless transition to a post-quantum secure system. In this article, while analyzing the impact of quantum computing on 5G mobile telecommunications security in detail, I will try to evaluate how cryptography is used in 5G and how the security of the system will be affected by the emergence of quantum computing.
The recently released 15th version of 3GPP, the standards body governing 5G cellular protocols, is "5G Phase 1". This defines the radio access network and control plane functions. 3GPP Release 16, on the other hand, will be called “5G Phase 2” and will include more advanced core networking features such as network slicing. 5G Stage 1; It paints a vivid picture of what authentication, authorization, trust and identity management is fundamentally about, and has accelerated the process of change driven by 5G technology.
5G is the cutting edge of cellular technology and is designed to increase the speed and responsiveness of wireless networks. We were already taking advantage of some of the features of 5G. For example, 5G was used to broadcast live in virtual reality at the 2018 Winter Olympic Games. As another example, Hyundai has integrated 5G technology into the infotainment system of its Nexo SUV models, allowing drivers to control their smart home devices from the road, sing karaoke or broadcast video.
While such progress is intriguing, existing vulnerabilities in mobile networks have become more prominent and dangerous in 5G networks. These risks include access to location data, contact information, etc. of unwanted parties. can lead to access and manipulation of many critical data. Additionally, the hyperconnectivity that 5G provides can exacerbate these issues by increasing the amount of attack vectors.
Fortunately, with technology, security tools are developing at the same pace. Using quantum keys to physically transfer confidential data shared between two parties will make 5G communications more secure and reduce, perhaps even eliminate, potential risks. Unlike existing public-key encryption protocols, which rely on decryptable mathematical algorithms, quantum keys rely on multiple quantum states of a photon, combining with its immutable and non-cloning properties, to prevent keys from being inadvertently interrupted and corrupted. This feature will eliminate some of the risks that 5G technology will bring.
Swiss company ID Quantique, a leader in quantum communications, was acquired by South Korean SK Telecom in February 2018 to ensure security in the hyperconnected 5G era. SK Telecom introduced the quantum secure system on Deutsche Telekom's trial network for live testing, with the goal of spreading it to commercial networks in 2019. Quantum Xchange brought with it the first commercial network, Quantum Key Distribution (QKD). SK Telecom will produce quantum switches to the USA using said technology to protect end-to-end data transmission.
Governments and companies are watching closely the expansion to 5G and how it will affect mobile communications; SK Telekom, together with KT and LG Uplus, will transmit and secure quantum secure technology, in addition, it strengthens its efforts to the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) to develop global standards for QKD.
As a result, the advancement of technology, the increase and dissemination of data transfer rates bring high risks as well as benefits. In order to protect the confidentiality and integrity of data, one should not make the mistake of using old security keys and technologies in new technologies; Quantum technology must be rapidly integrated into the communications and key distribution phases.
McClansy Founder
Ismail Orhan
Translated from https://hbrturkiye.com/sponsorlu-icerik/5g-dunyasinda-kuantum-guvenligi
McClansy Security Corporation
Workinton AND Kozyatağı, E-5 Yan yolu, Umut Sok., Kozyatağı - Ataşehir/İstanbul, Türkiye
Tel: +90 216 225 9454 Mobil: +90 532 688 8296
Copyright © 2021 McClansy Security Corporation - All Rights Reserved.
info@mcclansy.com
Announcing! With great pride and enthusiasm, we are sharing our latest publication, "Quantum Security: The Cyber Frontiers of the Future," with our esteemed readers. In this work, we provide an in-depth look at the interaction of quantum technology with cyber security. A must-have resource for enthusiasts of knowledge and technology!