Quantum Resistant Cryptosystem-Based Security Protocol for 5G Network

Abstract

Security is crucial for wireless communication networks, especially as quantum computing advances rapidly. It won’t be long before quantum attacks become feasible, potentially crippling large wireless networks within minutes. Current methods for securing connections and transactions—such as keys, certificates, and data—could be compromised by quantum computers. One concern is the use of fake base stations with stronger signal strengths to lure users into connecting with them in wireless communication network. A quantum-powered attacker could easily break traditional encryption algorithms and launch various attacks almost instantly. An example of this is the "bidding down" attack, where an attacker convinces both the user and network entities that security features are not upheld, despite their actual presence. This type of attack exploits the security weaknesses of older mobile networks. This paper explores security advancements and challenges related to contemporary public key cryptography, including RSA algorithms based on factorization and discrete logarithm problems with Diffie-Hellman and Elliptic-Curve Cryptography (ECC). While these methods provide adequate protection today, quantum computers could potentially break these algorithms or weaken cryptographic keys and hashes within minutes. Quantum cryptography, or quantum-resistant cryptography, objectives to develop algorithms and protocols resilient to quantum computing threats. This paper examines security vulnerabilities in wireless communication networks, focusing on key confirmation and authentication mechanisms. We propose a robust authentication and key agreement protocol for 5G networks using quantum-resistant cryptography. Our proposed protocol, verified with a verification tool, enhances the security of the authentication and key agreement procedures in wireless communication networks.