Year: 2026
Type: preprint
Abstract: Zero-knowledge proofs (ZKPs) enable the verification of a statement without revealing any information beyond its validity and constitute a fundamental primitive in cryptography and information theory. However, existing constructions rely on computational assumptions and are predominantly confined to bipartite settings, leaving their information-theoretic realization in bipartite or network scenarios largely unexplored. Here we develop a framework for zero-knowledge verification based on the indistinguishability of quantum states under operational constraints. Exploiting the fundamental limitations imposed by local operations, we show that a verifier is inherently restricted from extracting information about the underlying state while retaining the ability to verify correctness. We construct explicit protocols for multiparty quantum networks that achieve information-theoretic security, ensuring that no subset of collaborating parties can gain knowledge beyond the validity of the statement, independent of their joint computational power.
Source: arXiv (Cornell University)
Institution: Indian Statistical Institute
Language: English
Subfield: Atomic and Molecular Physics, and Optics
Field: Physics and Astronomy
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W7214780200