Dynamic encryption
Dynamic Encryption is a cryptographic principle that enables two parties to change the encryption algorithm for every transaction.[1] [2]
Introduction
The principle of Dynamic Encryption was invented by Professor Lars R. Knudsen at the Technical University of Denmark and has status of patent pending.
In a traditional cryptosystem a specific cipher is implemented and security of the system relies on the key agreement scheme. Dynamic Encryption enhance such a system by defining a set of ciphers such that not only the key but also the cipher changes on every new data transaction. Which means it follows the Moving Target Defense paradigm.
In order to establish an encrypted channel using the Dynamic Encryption principle the sender and receiver first negotiates a key and then the sender picks a cipher from a large pool of ciphers and sends that together with the encrypted message.
It is possible to construct a dynamic encryption system, from known ciphers (such as AES, DES, etc.), such that all encryption algorithms generated from this system are at least as secure as the static underlying cipher.[3]
Details
The exchanged cryptosystems do not have to be kept secret, but to avoid attackers modifying the transmitted encryption systems, the system should be transmitted over an authenticated channel.
Applications
Dynamic Encryption is deployed by Dencrypt Talk, a voice communication and live-chat application for iOS and Android. [4] Dencrypt Talk applies the principle by wrapping standard AES encryption with a dynamic layer which is changed for every phone call between two clients. [5] [6]
Awards
In 2017, Dencrypt won NATO’s Defence Innovation Challenge award in recognition of their deployment of Dynamic Encryption for voice communication. [7] [8]
- ^ Ramkilde Knudsen, Lars. "Dynamic Encryption" (PDF).
- ^ Ramkilde Knudsen, Lars. "Blog post on Dynamic Encryption".
- ^ Rijmen, Vincent. "Opinion on Dynamic Encryption" (PDF).
- ^ "Dencrypt Talk". NATO.
- ^ "Dencrypt Talk". Dencrypt A/S.
- ^ "Dynamic Encryption keeps secrets". Technical University of Denmark.
- ^ "Encryption company wins NATO innovation award". Technical University of Denmark.
- ^ "NITEC '17 Report" (PDF). NATO.