QuSIM-Enhanced GSM Security: A Quantum Prover Authentication Protocol (QuPAP) for Mobile Communication

As the world rapidly embraces quantum technologies, the need for robust quantum security protocols becomes increasingly paramount. Quantum key distribution (QKD) has been at the forefront of secure key exchange, but establishing a root of trust remains unaddressed. This research article presents a pioneering approach for global system for mobile communications (GSM) that bridges the gap between QKD and device identity verification. Our approach utilizes single-qubit states and amplitude encoding, integrating the BB84 protocol to securely share secret keys between entities. We implement two-factor authentication (2FA) to further protect against attacks and unauthorized access. Unlike entangled state-based schemes that require quantum memory and face practical implementation challenges, our single-qubit approach avoids these issues, making it feasible with current technology. Central to our approach is the verification of the subscriber identity module (SIM) card holder’s authenticity using the quantum prover authentication protocol (QuPAP) at the mobile authentication Center. This quantum cryptography-based process enhances GSM communication security and can be integrated into existing networks with minimal modifications. Our proposed smartphone, equipped with dual SIM capabilities—one conventional (cSIM) and one quantum (QuSIM)—ensures compatibility with both current and future networks, allowing the benefits of quantum security without requiring a complete system overhaul. By integrating quantum security into classical GSM protocols, our scheme not only enhances security but also addresses crucial aspects of device identity authentication, attestation, and trust establishment. The security and performance analysis of the QuPAP prototype demonstrates a quantum leap in mobile security, fostering a future of trust, privacy, and resilience in the ever-evolving landscape of communication technologies.