A scientific breakthrough means quantum cryptography could soon provide hack-proof security for voice-over IP and video communications.

Last week, IT researchers from Toshiba Research Europe, QinetiQ and US firm MagiQ, successfully demonstrated at a Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) event that the principles of quantum physics can be deployed to protect highly sensitive communications.

Toshiba's Dr Andrew Shield told Computing that he hopes to launch a commercial system soon, which could be used to prevent criminals and competitors spying on sensitive information, video conferences or internet telephony calls.

Quantum cryptography uses tamper-proof photon light particles to encode communications, guaranteeing security over an optical network.

If someone tries to spy on the encrypted data as it travels down the fibre optic cables, the encoding changes, which immediately alerts senders and recipients to the hack.

Last year, Computing reported that the DTI and the emerging technologies division of the former e-Envoy's office were working on a project to investigate and encourage developments in the technology (Computing, 4 March 2004).

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