1997-98
NEW MEXICO
HIGH SCHOOL
SUPERCOMPUTING CHALLENGE

Data Encryption Systems

Team Number:

071

School Name:

Las Cruces High School

Area of Science:

Mathematics and Computer Science

Project Title:

Data Encryption Systems

Our team has chosen to examine the security of data encryption in real-world situations, using the CRAY SuperComputer, since electronic transactions have become a standard for business worldwide. Data encryption can be accomplished by altering the text or embedding the text. We will summarize the possible methods of circumventing systems of data encryption and data embedding, in accordance with the Windows, UNIX, LINUX, and Macintosh platforms. We expect to investigate cryptographic and steganographic systems, and use statistics and number theory to reinforce our knowledge of programming and enhance our critical thinking skills. Since there is an open challenge to break the RSA code, we may discover insight into a possible method of approach to this problem.

Team Members:

• Brian J. Baker
• Stef B. Schoenmackers
• Vahid E. Masagutov
• Robert A. Rossow
• Brady W. Allred

Sponsoring Teacher(s):

• Mark D. Franzak
• Sharon L. Schadler

Project Advisor(s):

• Ross Staffeldt
• Glendel D. Love