Quantum-inspired Hash Function Based on Parity-dependent Quantum Walks with Memory

Abstract: In this paper, we develop a generic controlled alternate quantum walk model (called CQWM-P) by combining parity-dependent quantum walks with distinct arbitrary memory lengths and then construct a quantum-inspired hash function (called QHFM-P) based on this model. Numerical simulation shows that QHFM-P has near-ideal statistical performance and is on a par with the state-of-the-art hash functions based on discrete quantum walks in terms of sensitivity of hash value to message, diffusion and confusion properties, uniform distribution property, and collision resistance property. Stability test illustrates that the statistical properties of the proposed hash function are robust with respect to the coin parameters, and theoretical analysis indicates that QHFM-P has the same computational complexity as that of its peers.