A Secure Scheme Based on a Hybrid of Classical-Quantum Communications Protocols for Managing Classical Blockchains

Area of Science:

• Computer Science
• Cryptography
• Quantum Computing

Background:

• Blockchain technology relies on classical cryptography, vulnerable to quantum computing attacks.
• Existing quantum blockchain solutions face challenges with practicality and efficiency.
• Advancements in quantum computation pose a significant threat to current blockchain security.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a practical and efficient quantum-secure blockchain (QSB) scheme.
• To address the security vulnerabilities of traditional blockchains against quantum adversaries.
• To propose a quantum strategy for securing blockchain systems in the quantum era.

Main Methods:

• Introduced a quantum-secure blockchain (QSB) scheme.
• Developed a consensus mechanism: quantum proof of authority (QPoA) for block generation.
• Implemented an identity-based quantum signature (IQS) for transaction signing and verification.
• Utilized a quantum voting protocol within QPoA for decentralization.
• Deployed a quantum random number generator (QRNG) for leader node election to prevent denial-of-service attacks.

Main Results:

• The proposed QSB scheme is more practical and efficient than previous quantum blockchain systems.
• The scheme provides enhanced security against quantum computing attacks.
• Security analysis confirms superior protection compared to classic blockchains.
• The system effectively addresses challenges posed by quantum adversaries.

Conclusions:

• The developed QSB scheme presents a feasible solution for securing blockchain systems against quantum computing threats.
• The integration of QPoA and IQS offers a robust quantum strategy for blockchain.
• This work significantly contributes to the advancement of quantum-secured blockchain technology.