06-04-2012, 02:57 PM
RSA Secure Chat Server
RSAChatServer.pdf (Size: 97.25 KB / Downloads: 286)
Benefits of Chat Service
• Allows for "instant" communications between people.
• Use of the real time chat over the Internet can eliminate costly long distance
charges.
• Ability to stay in contact with people who you normally never see.
• Allows for quick questions and quick responses.
Negatives of Chat Service
• Potential security/privacy problems of these Instant Messaging programs.
• Chat in most instances are routed through a server system where the service is
provided and that is a single point where all messages can be intercepted.
• Chat programs can provide an open avenue of attack for hackers, crackers, spies
and thieves.
Implemented Solution Encryption
– Utilize public key encryption to securely transmit messages between users.
– Encrypt each message with public key of target recipient.
– Since chat messages are normally not long, it requires less processing time
for the program to encrypt the message.
– Digitally sign every message
Positives
- Very secure message exchange
- Interception can happen but the interceptor can not decipher the
message.
- Insertion of data can happen but the digital signature ensures that message is
authentic.
Negatives
- Much slower then symmetric encryption methods, however since messages are
relatively short. The difference between the times is negligible.
- Much more hassle to encrypt and decrypt messages.
- Can be subject to man in the middle attack