Quantum-Resistance in Blockchain Networks

Abstract

This paper describes the work carried out by the Inter-American Development Bank, the IDB Lab, LACChain, Cambridge Quantum Computing (CQC), and Tecnológico de Monterrey to identify and eliminate quantum threats in blockchain networks. The advent of quantum computing threatens internet protocols and blockchain networks because they utilize non-quantum resistant cryptographic algorithms. When quantum computers become robust enough to run Shor's algorithm on a large scale, the most used asymmetric algorithms, utilized for digital signatures and message encryption, such as RSA, (EC)DSA, and (EC)DH, will be no longer secure. Quantum computers will be able to break them within a short period of time. Similarly, Grover's algorithm concedes a quadratic advantage for mining blocks in certain consensus protocols such as proof of work. Today, there are hundreds of billions of dollars denominated in cryptocurrencies that rely on blockchain ledgers as well as the thousands of blockchain-based applications storing value in blockchain networks. Cryptocurrencies and blockchain-based applications require solutions that guarantee quantum resistance in order to preserve the integrity of data and assets in their public and immutable ledgers. We have designed and developed a layer-two solution to secure the exchange of information between blockchain nodes over the internet and introduced a second signature in transactions using post-quantum keys. Our versatile solution can be applied to any blockchain network. In our implementation, quantum entropy was provided via the IronBridge Platform from CQC and we used LACChain Besu as the blockchain network.

Quantum Computing and ZX-Optimization-based Simulation Model for Blockchain-enabled Healthcare System

“…• Allende et al [28] discussed that the QC poses a significant threat to Bl protocols and networks due to their dependency on cryptographic algorithms that are not resistant to quantum attacks. This work proposes a solution for post-quantum Bl networks that can withstand quantum attacks on cryptography algorithms.…”

“…Spiders → Readability/Intuitiveness Enhancement (7) To conduct a comprehensive risk analysis of blockchain protocols and develop a risk management framework specifically tailored to address the security vulnerabilities posed by quantum computing. [28] 2023 To propose a solution for post-quantum blockchain networks that can withstand quantum attacks on cryptographic algorithms.…”

“…• Hopf Link Rule: The edge can be removed between two spiders connected with phases differ by 𝜋∕2 as presented in (28), i.e.…”