Motivating
Example: Microsoft Product Key
•When Windows or Microsoft office are installed, the user is required to enter a
25-digit
alphanumeric antipiracy code.
•This code (“key”) must be short.
•The computer must be able to quickly recognize whether or not
this is a valid key, without giving away any clue as to how to manufacture additional
valid keys.
•Otherwise thieves
would copy the software CDs
and illegally resell them with new codes. Key=CA$H.
•Future attacks will be faster.
How can one keep
the key short, yet still keep up with the attackers?
•This requires new methods and cryptosystems. Serious mathematics involved in design.
