Post-selective attack with multimode projection onto Fock subspace
Phys. Rev. A 114, 042606 – Published 6 October, 2026
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1103/tmj8-lsfg
Abstract
In this work we present a comprehensive analysis of a post-selective attack on quantum key distribution protocols employing phase-encoded linearly independent coherent states (or similar alternatives). The attack relies on multimode projection onto a Fock subspace and enables probabilistic extraction of information by an eavesdropper. We derive analytical expressions for the information accessible to the adversary, and show that it depends only on three protocol parameters: the mean photon number of the signal states, the phase separation in the information basis, and the expected optical loss of the quantum channel. Several optical realizations of phase-encoded quantum key distribution protocols are analyzed to illustrate the applicability of the results. Possible countermeasures against the proposed attack are also discussed.
