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Quantum computing has teased us with its potential for some time, but we won't be seeing qubits in our laptops anytime soon. However, science has also sought to leverage quantum physics in cryptography, and a recent breakthrough will allow for quantum encryption over fiber optic cables already in use.

Summary: California researchers report a breakthrough with the creation of a solid-state quantum processor that could ultimately have a bearing on future cryptographic techniques. Researchers in California have designed and built a quantum processor capable of factoring 15 into its primes - with major implications for computer security.

Here's a recent piece by security expert Bruce Schneier on quantum computing, which is different than quantum cryptography. (I conflated the two during class today.) Quantum computing is very fast computing that could be used to quickly break modern encryption schemes. Quantum cryptography involves sending messages that can't be read, since "looking" at them changes the message. Schneier offers some conjectures about where the NSA is with regard to both technologies.

Very interesting article that begins with the story of Mary, Queen of Scots, and continues to speak about different techniques of encryption that are harder and harder to break. It also deals with the fact that Mary's messages were being intercepted and the article speaks about secure encryption using photons where you would know if your message was intercepted.

China will complete and put into service the world's longest quantum communication network stretching 2,000km from Beijing to Shanghai by 2016. By 2030, the Chinese network would be extended worldwide, Xinhua reported.

The "uncrackable codes" made by exploiting the branch of physics called quantum mechanics no longer require the use of special "dark fibres" and have been sent down kilometres of standard broadband fibre.

Although it doesn't directly deal with online privacy, I thought this was really cool. It is a new form of encryption involving sending a beam of two photons with only one of them acting as a "key." It could very well be the new method of securing privacy.