Quantum call

Researchers use quantum physics to encrypt a tap-proof phone.

Scientists in Vienna have created an encryption key based on the polarisation of photons and subatomic particles that carry light. This key has enabled the physicists to communicate on a completely tap-proof telephone network for the first time.

"Classic keys can be hacked by supercomputers, but not in this case," said Anton Zeilinger, a quantum physicist at the Vienna University.

The Vienna University scientists managed to use quantum cryptography in a network that involved six points - quantum cryptography had only been achieved between two points, until now.

This new system works because the law of quantum physics sees photons change their state whenever they are measured. This means that an eavesdropper listening in would disrupt the encoding system and communication would breakdown because the photon keys could no longer be created.

However, the transmissions are considerably slower than it would be over the internet. Also, the maximum distance the data can be sent over a glass-fibre network is limited to 100 kilometres.

But, Zeilinger said: "As far as I am concerned, these are only technical challenges, not fundamental problems."

"I think we will be able to offer secure communication to our customers in three to four years," said Brigitte Ederer, the CEO of Siemens AG Austria, which is involved in the project.

This project is involved in the SECOQC project of the 6th framework programme funded by the European Union.

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