GlobeNewswire Inc | Sep 3, 2020 09:00AM EDT

September 03, 2020

What you need to know:

-- Verizon is one of the first carriers in U.S. to pilot Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) to protect data

-- Trial in D.C. area, showcased how quantum-based technology can strengthen security

-- QKD leverages quantum physics to derive secure cryptographic keys providing the best defense against eavesdropping

NEW YORK, Sept. 03, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Verizon is working today to ensure that communications tomorrow are safe from hackers. To showcase how quantum-based technology can strengthen security, Verizon recently conducted a trial in the Washington D.C. area deploying a Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) network. The successful trial positions Verizon as one of the first carriers to pilot QKD in the U.S.

We continue to innovate and discover new ways to ensure safe networks and communications down the road for both consumers and enterprises, said Nicki Palmer, chief product development officer at Verizon. In testing advanced security technologies, our QKD trial demonstrates how quantum-based technology can strengthen data security today and in the future."

Quantum computers are believed to be able to solve certain computational problems significantly faster than classical computers eventually making it easier for hackers to crack todays math-based encryption keys. Since theres a limit to how many unique number combinations can be generated today, hackers using the increased compute power of quantum computers will be able to more easily decrypt your data.

"The use of quantum mechanics is a great step forward in data security, said Christina Richmond, analyst at IDC. Verizon's own tests, as well other industry testing, have shown that deriving "secret keys" between two entities via light photons effectively blocks perfect cloning by an eavesdropper if a key intercept is attempted. Current technological breakthroughs have proven that both the quantum channel and encrypted data channel can be sent over a single optical fiber. Verizon has demonstrated this streamlined approach brings greater efficiency for practical large-scale implementation allowing keys to be securely shared over wide-ranging networks.

Trial Details

In the recent trial, live video was captured outside of three Verizon locations in the D.C. area, including the Washington DC Executive Briefing Center, the 5G Lab in D.C and Verizons Ashburn, VA office. Using a QKD network, quantum keys were created and exchanged over a fiber network between Verizon locations.

In the trial, video streams are encrypted and delivered more securely allowing the recipient to see the video in real-time while ensuring hackers are instantly detected. A QKD network derives cryptographic keys using the quantum properties of photons to prevent against eavesdropping. Verizon also demonstrated that data can be further secured with keys generated using a Quantum Random Number Generator (QRNG) that creates truly random numbers that cant be predicted. With QKD, encryption keys are continuously generated and are immune to attacks because any disruption to the channel breaks the quantum state of photons signaling eavesdroppers are present.

Learn more about QKD and the current state of data breaches inthe Verizon Business 2020 Data Breach Investigation Report.

About Verizon

Verizon Communications Inc. (NYSE, Nasdaq: VZ) was formed on June 30, 2000 and is celebrating its 20th year as one of the worlds leading providers of communications, information and entertainment products and services. Headquartered in New York City and with a presence around the world, Verizon generated revenues of $130.9 billion in 2018. The company offers voice, data and video services and solutions on its award-winning networks and platforms, delivering on customers demand for mobility, reliable network connectivity, security and control.

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Media Contact:

Chris Ashraf christina.moon.ashraf@verizon.com201.320.4259Twitter: @ChrisMoonPR