Hash-based encryption system

This paper describes a symmetric-key encryption algorithm based on a use of an underlying one-way hash function. The strength of this encryption algor ithm depends on security of a one-way hash function. It is computationally more efficient and, most importantly, more secure than using traditional sy mmetric encryption tools such as DES. The algorithm can be further enhanced by using the services of a random number generator. This random number gen erator does not have to be shared between the parties involved, so it can b e a strong random number generator, not a pseudo-random one. Our scheme als o has the forward and backward secrecy properties; that is, if a particular message is somehow decrypted by an attacker, it will not affect the securi ty of messages sent before and after it. The algorithm itself is very simpl e and can be implemented in either software or hardware. In short, the prop osed scheme has all the desired properties of a one-time pad encryption alg orithm and solves the problem of safely transmitting the pads from one part y to another. The described method has a potential positive impact on sever al cryptographic standards, especially since some standards are going throu gh a review because of the recently published reports of successful attacks on DES.