Software Implementation of LSFR-Based Stream Ciphers for GSM Cryptosystems
Daniel I. Okunbor · 2018
Encrypted data transmissions through mobile communication channels are potentially vulnerable to cryptographic attacks since malicious agents may steal confidential information by running algorithms that can break the security of the encrypted data. Secure transfer of data through the combination of encryption and decryption, known as cipher, is the general approach to solving this problem in mobile communications. Specifically, stream ciphers do not suffer from propagation errors compared to other ciphers, and they tend to have better software efficiency. This research focuses on the applications of mobile communications for which stream ciphers are the natural choice. The research addresses the security of both Global System Mobile Communications (GSM) and Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA), the two most prominent standards. By strengthening such communication channels, conversations can be secured, data can be saved from interception, and cellular fraud can be prevented. We investigate many aspects of stream ciphers, particularly Linear Feedback Shift Registers (LFSR)-based stream ciphers. We develop comprehensive software libraries written in a prominent computer-programming language, with effective design of software interfaces.