Quantum anonymous notification for network-based applications

Anonymity is a desirable yet challenging requirement of communication networks. In this paper, we present the first quantum anonymous notification (QAN) protocol that introduces anonymity for both sender and the receiver in practical quantum networks. Our QAN protocol features tracelessness, i.e., it is impossible to trace the encoding operations back to the encoding party even if all network communication including qubits and measurement results are made available to an adversary. Additionally, we demonstrate the QAN protocol in a four-node network using IBM quantum computer to benchmark its performance in practical settings. QAN protocol can be of independent interest as a powerful component of several applications ranging from multiparty quantum computation to quantum Internet. Security analysis shows that this protocol is robust against external adversaries and malicious participants.