Optical fiber-based key for remote authentication of users and optical fiber line. (arXiv:2301.01636v1 [physics.optics])

We have shown the opportunity to use the unique inhomogeneities of the
internal structure of an optical fiber waveguide for remote authentication of
users or an optic fiber line. Optical Time Domain Reflectometry (OTDR) is
demonstrated to be applicable to observing unclonable backscattered signal
patterns at distances of tens of kilometers. The physical nature of the
detected patterns was explained, and their characteristic spatial periods were
investigated. The patterns are due to the refractive index fluctuations of a
standard telecommunication …

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