The Sad History of Random Bits

Abstract In this paper, we examine the history of using random numbers in computer programs. Unfortunately, this history is sad because it is replete with disasters ranging from one of the first pseudo-random number generators, RANDU, being very bad to the most recent efforts by the NSA to undermine the pseudo-random number generator in RSA’s BSAFE cryptographic library. Failures in this area have been both intentional and unintentional, but unfortunately, the same sorts of mistakes are repeated. The repeated failures in getting our “random numbers” correct suggest that there might be some systemic reasons for these failures. In this paper, …

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Cheating

The effect of backgammon is strange. If one wins then it was the result of the own strategic superiority. But if one loses, then the opponent was just lucky. And if one loses several times, then something must be wrong. Especially when playing online, cheating, fraud or bot, something must take place there. – Let us look more closely to that. What Options Are There To Cheat At Online Backgammon? 1) One can hack the backgammon server and manipulate the dice. This is the most sophisticated method. In practice, it should, however, not be realized. First, there is a server …

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