The BB84 protocol is a quantum key distribution scheme introduced by Charles Bennett and Gilles Brassard in 1984, which enables two parties to securely exchange cryptographic keys using the principles of quantum mechanics. This protocol relies on the behavior of quantum states to ensure that any attempt at eavesdropping can be detected, thereby allowing for secure communication. It highlights the applications of quantum mechanics in securing data and forms a basis for understanding security proofs against eavesdropping attacks.
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