Enhanced Security with Quantum Key Distribution and Blockchain for Digital Identities

As evolving digital ecosystems become increasingly interconnected and reliant on digital transactions, secure, private and user-centric identity solutions are garnering more spotlight than ever before. In this paper, we propose an innovative architecture that integrates quantum key distribution (QKD) with blockchain-based self-sovereign identity (SSI) systems for secure key distribution and network/user management for mobile networks with advanced 6G network capabilities. The proposed approach leverages the advanced security guarantes of QKD to ensure the confidentiality and integrity of communications and uses the decentralized and immutable nature of blockchain technology to give individuals/organizations control over their digital identities in mobile environments. We then go on to expound on the foundations of architectural components and discuss its implications for various telecom specific services and applications. Finally, we present challenges and future directions to provide quantum communication support against future digital threats and a decentralized framework for identity management with the global pursuit of more privacy-friendly and usercentric digital services, and offer comparisons with traditional approaches.