In an increasingly digital world, the need for truly random numbers is more critical than ever. From securing online communications to ensuring fairness in lotteries, random number generators (RNGs) play a vital role. A groundbreaking collaboration between the University of Gdańsk in Poland and the Universidad de Concepción in Chile has led to the development of an innovative quantum random number generator (QRNG) that promises to revolutionize these fields. This device, protected by an international patent, can automatically detect and, in many instances, repair its own malfunctions or even hacker attacks.
Traditional random number generators rely on algorithms that, while complex, are ultimately deterministic. This means that, given enough information, their output can be predicted. QRNGs, on the other hand, harness the inherent randomness of quantum mechanics to produce truly unpredictable numbers.
The joint Polish-Chilean team, led by Dr. hab. Marcin Pawłowski, prof. UG, from the International Centre for Theory of Quantum Technologies, and Prof. Gustavo Lima, have created a unique system that offers a significant leap forward in RNG technology. This innovative approach ensures the integrity of generated random numbers, even if the device's electronic components are tampered with during production.
One of the most remarkable features of this QRNG is its self-testing capability. The device can autonomously detect anomalies, whether caused by internal malfunctions or external intrusions. In many cases, it can even correct these issues, ensuring the continuous generation of high-quality random numbers.
This self-testing feature is crucial for applications where trust in the randomness is paramount. Consider the following scenarios:
The potential of this QRNG has attracted significant interest from the commercial sector. A license agreement has been signed with SEQURE SPA, a Chilean company that is building a prototype of the device for use in lotteries.
Loteria de Concepción, the largest lottery in Chile, has already expressed interest in purchasing these devices. They showcased the prototype at their 125th-anniversary exhibition in October 2021, highlighting it as a future solution for ensuring the integrity of their games.
Currently, efforts are underway to develop an interface that seamlessly integrates the QRNG with lottery computer systems. This includes creating specialized software that allows the direct use of the generated numbers in lottery games.
The University of Gdańsk is actively working on further protecting the invention, scaling up the device, and adapting it for widespread use, as part of the Inkubator Innowacyjności 4.0 project.
"Thanks to these activities, the connection between business and the field of new quantum technologies in the field of cybersecurity is becoming a reality," says Katarzyna Gronowska, director of the University of Gdańsk Technology Transfer Center.
Prof. Marcin Pawłowski, a co-creator of the invention, also heads the Quantum Cybersecurity Team at the International Centre for Theory of Quantum Technologies. He is a scientific mentor in the Board of Directors of the Quantum Cybersecurity Hub Europe Foundation and a partner in Quantum Cybersecurity Group, an international spin-off company of the University of Gdańsk.
This Polish-Chilean collaboration highlights the growing importance of quantum technology in addressing critical security challenges. With its self-testing capabilities and resistance to hacking, this QRNG marks a significant step towards a more secure and trustworthy digital future.
