Commutative encryption method based on hidden logarithm problem

A candidate for post-quantum commutative encryption algorithm is proposed, which is based on the hidden discrete logarithm problem defined in a new 6-dimensional finite non-commutative associative algebra. The properties of the algebra are investigated in detail and used in the design of the proposed commutative cipher. The formulas describing the set of p2 different global right-sided units contained in the algebra and local left-sided units are derived. Homomorphisms of two different types are considered and used in the commutative cipher. The encrypted message is represented in the form of a locally invertible element T of the algebra and encryption procedure includes performing the exponentiation operation and homomorphism map followed by the left-sided multiplication by a randomly selected local right-sided unit. The introduced commutative cipher is secure to the known-plaintext attacks and has been used to develop the post-quantum no-key encryption protocol providing possibility to send securely a secret message via a public channel without using any pre-agreed key. The proposed commutative encryption algorithm is characterized in using the single-use keys that are selected at random directly during the encryption process.