CAREER: Obfuscation from a Complexity Theoretic Perspective

混淆方案是非常理想的工具，用于将程序转换为难以理解的程序，同时保留功能。然而，到目前为止，还没有有充分安全保障的混淆方案。这个项目的主要目标是通过开发基于标准的、经过充分研究的假设来设计模糊方案的新方法来解决这一差距。另一个目标是使用模糊处理作为一种通用工具，以实现广泛的加密和安全应用程序。这项研究将促进混淆方案的设计和应用状况，以及更广泛的密码学可行性，有助于建立一个更安全和隐私的网络空间。这项研究的重点是一种形式的模糊，称为不可区分模糊(IO)。具体的研究问题包括寻找更简单的加密对象、代数结构、标准对象的泛化以及隐含IO的假设。该项目还调查了可以根据标准假设构建什么，并开发了克服IO应用中现有技术障碍的新技术，以及消除IO使用以获得针对特定应用的更简单、更高效的解决方案的一般技术。该项目积极致力于传播混淆知识，向本科生和研究生教授密码学，并支持STEM中的妇女。这些活动将有助于建立一支熟练和多样化的劳动力队伍，并丰富科学界。

Obfuscation schemes are highly desirable tools for transforming programs into unintelligible ones while preserving functionality. However, so far, there lack obfuscation schemes with well-founded security guarantees. The main objective of this project is addressing this gap, by developing new approaches for designing obfuscation schemes based on standard, well-studied, assumptions. Another objective is using obfuscation as a versatile tool to enable a wide range of cryptographic and security applications. This research will advance the state of design and application of obfuscation schemes, and more generally cryptographic feasibility, which contribute to building a more secure and private cyberspace. The research focuses on a form of obfuscation, called Indistinguishability Obfuscation (IO). Specific research problems include finding simpler cryptographic objects, algebraic structures, generalization of standard objects, and assumptions that imply IO. The project also investigates what can be built from standard assumptions, and develops new techniques that overcome existing technical barriers in applying IO, as well as general techniques for removing the use of IO to obtain simpler and more efficient solutions for specific applications. This project actively engages in disseminating knowledge of obfuscation, teaching cryptography to undergraduate and graduate students, and supporting women in STEM. These activities will contribute to building a skilled and diverse workforce and enriching the scientific community.