Crystal cryptography

The

has announced a AUD $9 million international joint venture to market anti-eavesdropping technology based on quantum cryptography.

“Using a unique diamond-based device which produces a single photon of light, we will be able to detect eavesdroppers and stop highly sensitive information being intercepted or stolen,” said Quantum Communications Victoria (QCV) CEO and University of Melbourne scientist, Dr Shane Huntington.

The QCV programme within the University’s School of Physics has secured a deal with world leading quantum communication production and commercialisation companies, MagiQ Technologies , Qucor and Silicon Graphics.

The joint venture began after QCV was awarded $3.3 million as part of a grant from the Department of Innovation, Industry and Regional Development to develop the technology further.

The University of Melbourne technology has widespread implications for financial institutions, security agencies, governments and individuals who need to communicate sensitive information with total security.