Nature Inspired Cryptography and Security

Speaker: John Clark

14th January 2004 , 2:00pm , Room 519 Claremont Tower

Abstract

In this talk I will outline how nature-based search techniques have recently been applied to problems in modern cryptography and cryptographic applications. Much work has concentrated on the development of building blocks (such as the synthesis of Boolean functions satisfying particular cryptographic criteria) but there have been higher level applications (such as the automated refinement of security protocols). I will describe work on building blocks, protocols, and outline some rather non-standard approaches to cryptanalysis. I will also hint at possibilities for downright skullduggery (e.g. planting trapdoors in cryptographic designs). I wouldn't want to give a full seminar on "achievements", and so will end by engaging in gross speculation regarding the future of nature-inspired techniques in cryptology and security more generally.

The talk will be aimed at a general computer science audience.

Dr John A Clark
Senior Lecturer in Critical Systems
Department of Computer Science
University of York