A novel circulant matrix-based McEliece framework for secure digital communication

McEliece cryptosystem is old and well-explored post-quantum cryptography system that offers superior security against quantum attacks. Though the system holds great potential and superior security, the challenge associated with large key sizes has made system impractical for most applications. The first challenge against McEliece cryptosystem remains its large key sizes, which make system impractical, especially when implementing internet of things (IoT) and mobile communication applications. Overcoming challenges and retaining superior security still remains an issue to explore. This paper presents investigation into use of circulant matrices for McEliece encryption system to achieve a considerable reduction in key sizes and enhance fast encryption processes. The use of circulant matrices’ inherent properties boosts performance without focusing much on system’s security. In addition, the paper presents security evaluation process for modified communication system to determine and mitigate weaknesses that might arise, considering use of sophisticated encryption systems. Findings and results explore use of circulant matrices, which achieve great reductions in key sizes and improve efficiency of process. Security evaluation reports that proper scrambling techniques are efficient at mending the vulnerabilities associated with circulant matrix structures. A modified McEliece cryptosystem using circulant matrices offers superior data communication, balancing both strong security and efficient computational processes, making system ideal for use in recent communication systems.