Encryption Key Reading System Laser Attack Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing key reading systems are vulnerable to attacks using lasers, which can force the delivery of encryption/deciphering keys by manipulating the logical state of multiplexers.
Innovation Solution
A process and system for reading an encryption/deciphering key that requires two different conditions to be met, involving comparisons of bits from an unlock word and an access key, and utilizing multiple means of deliverance to ensure key integrity during attacks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a single comparator and single set of multiplexers are used to read the encryption/decryption key, then the system operation is simple and fast, but the system becomes vulnerable to laser attacks that can force key delivery by manipulating the logical state
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the key reading operation into multiple independent segments: multiple comparators (first comparator, second comparator) each comparing different sets of bits, and multiple delivery means (first multiplexer, second multiplexer) each delivering different portions of the key. This segmentation ensures that a laser attack on one segment does not compromise the entire key, as each segment operates independently and requires separate manipulation to force delivery.
2Reliability
If multiple sets of bits are compared under different conditions to deliver the key, then the system becomes more robust against attacks, but the reading process requires more steps and time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary comparisons of different sets of bits under different conditions before the actual key delivery is required. The first comparator compares a first set of bits under a first condition, and the second comparator compares a second set of bits under a second condition, preparing the system in advance so that when the correct conditions are met, the key can be delivered securely without requiring sequential manipulation during the attack window.
Data Source
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AI summary
The encryption/decryption key reading system (10) comprises at least a first word (32) comprising a plurality of bits (B31, B32, B33, B34, B35, B36, B37, B38), the system comprising: - a first means of comparison (21), - a first means of delivery (12), - a second means of comparison (22), and - a second means of delivery (13).