IC Security Module for IR Laser Probing Defense
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Integrated circuits (ICs) face security threats from attackers using backside probing techniques, such as infrared laser probing, which allow observation and manipulation of internal signals, compromising data secrecy.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a security module within the IC that modifies signals and events to make them non-deterministic relative to external events, obscuring functionality and data from external observation, particularly when using IR laser probes, through the use of pseudo-random value generators and delay chains.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If backside probing techniques are used to observe internal signals, then detailed time-varying signal information can be acquired, but security of the integrated circuit is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary layer between the internal circuit signals and the external probing interface. This intermediary modifies the signals before they reach the probed nodes, preventing direct observation of the original internal signals while still allowing functional operation of the circuit
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameters of the signals at the probed nodes by introducing random delays and jitter. The signal timing and phase are modified so that external observers cannot correlate the probed signals with the actual internal circuit operations, thereby protecting security while maintaining measurement capability
2Measurement precision
If multiple repeated samples are taken to improve signal-to-noise ratio, then accurate waveforms can be reconstructed, but the time required for analysis increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-processing the signals through the security module before they reach the probed nodes. The random delay mechanisms are built into the signal path itself, so that single samples can be taken without requiring multiple repetitions, significantly reducing analysis time while maintaining signal integrity
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Effectively protects ICs from external observation and manipulation by rendering internal events non-deterministic, enhancing security against probing attacks while allowing for disablement during testing and manufacturing.
Implementation Method 1
through the use of pseudo-random value generators and delay chains
Implementation Method 2
Since silicon is transparent to IR light, IR lasers may be used to penetrate the back side of the IC and to probe the transistor structures within the silicon
Data Source
AI summary
A mechanism for protecting integrated circuits (IC) from security attacks includes an IC having components that may store one or more data items and may perform a number of functions and which produce resulting events. The IC may also include a security module that may modify signals and events provided to the components such that the resulting events are modified in a non-effectual way but that causes the events to be non-deterministic relative to an event that is external to the integrated circuit when the resulting events are viewed externally to the IC. This may result in obscuring the data, and the functions from being observed from external to the IC, particularly when using an IR laser probe.