it has long been assumed in physics that for information to travel in empty space between two parties , “ physically real ” entities have to travel between the parties . the recently discovered technique of interaction - free measurement — wherein the presence of an object is inferred without the object directly interacting with the interrogating light — has caused this basic assumption to be questioned . this technique has found application in quantum key distribution in the form of counterfactual quantum key distribution albeit with limited efficiency . in the present invention , using the “ chained ” quantum zeno effect , this logic is taken to its natural conclusion and , in the ideal limit , information can be transferred between the sender and the receiver without any physical particles whatsoever traveling between them .