Abstract:

Quantum communication systems, particularly those employing Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) protocols like BB84, are designed to leverage the principles of quantum mechanics to ensure secure information transfer. However, they remain susceptible to certain types of attacks, such as the Bucket Brigade Attack (BBA), where an adversary intercepts and retransmits quantum signals to eavesdrop without detection. This abstract explores the potential of utilizing quantum cloning and photon polarization techniques to detect and mitigate such attacks. The no-cloning theorem in quantum mechanics prohibits the creation of perfect copies of unknown quantum states. Nonetheless, approximate quantum cloning machines (QCMs) can produce imperfect copies with a fidelity less than one. In the context of a BBA, an adversary might employ QCMs to intercept and clone quantum states, aiming to extract information without introducing detectable anomalies. By understanding the limitations of quantum cloning, legitimate parties can design systems that are sensitive to the disturbances introduced by such cloning attempts, thereby detecting potential eavesdropping. Photon polarization is a fundamental property utilized in encoding information within quantum communication protocols. Techniques that manipulate and measure the polarization states of photons are crucial for both transmitting information and detecting anomalies.