Latch-Based Laser Sensor Array for LFI Attack Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems lack an efficient and cost-effective method to detect laser fault injection (LFI) side channel attacks, which can compromise security information assets in computing devices.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a latch-based LFI sensor array that directly detects light using a modified latch structure and photosensitive elements, eliminating the need for complex analog circuitry and allowing for accurate detection of LFI attacks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If complex analog circuitry is used to detect LFI attacks, then detection capability is achieved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the light detection function from complex analog circuitry and implements it directly at the latch level using photosensitive elements integrated into the latch structure. This allows LFI attack detection to be performed by the latch itself without requiring separate complex analog detection circuits, thereby reducing overall device complexity while maintaining detection capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex analog circuitry with a digital latch-based detection mechanism. Instead of using continuous analog signals and complex processing circuits, the system uses discrete digital latch states that change in response to light-induced faults, simplifying the detection system while maintaining effectiveness.
2Area of stationary object
If standard latches are used without protection, then area consumption is minimized, but vulnerability to LFI attacks increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the light detection function with the standard latch structure by integrating photosensitive elements directly into the latch circuit. This combination allows the latch to simultaneously perform its data storage function and detect LFI attacks, eliminating the need for separate protection circuits and minimizing area consumption while providing vulnerability protection.
Solution Approach 2:
The modified latch structure achieves multi-functionality by combining data storage and LFI attack detection in a single circuit element. The latch serves both as a standard storage element and as a sensor that detects light-induced faults, reducing the need for additional dedicated protection circuits and minimizing overall area consumption.
3Measurement precision
If photosensitive elements are coupled to latch nodes, then LFI detection accuracy improves, but area consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a nested structure where photosensitive elements are integrated within the latch circuit boundaries rather than being added as external components. The photosensitive elements are positioned to detect light at critical nodes within the latch structure, allowing accurate LFI detection while minimizing area overhead by utilizing the existing latch layout and shared circuit resources.
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
This approach improves the accuracy and efficiency of LFI attack detection, reduces area consumption and cost, and initiates defensive measures before faults occur in standard latches.
Implementation Method 1
obtain a photocurrent generated by a photosensitive element coupled to at least one of the cross-connected node or the output node
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and techniques are provided for sensing light. For example, a process can include obtaining an active state of a reset signal at a reset input node of an electrical component. The process can include in response to obtaining the active state of the reset signal, latching a voltage of an output node of the electrical component at a first voltage and latch a voltage of a cross-connected node of the electrical component at a second voltage. The process can include obtaining a photocurrent generated by a photosensitive element coupled to at least one of the cross-connected node or the output node. The process can include, in response to at least one of the cross-connected node falling below a first threshold voltage or the output node rising above a second threshold voltage, latching a third voltage at the output node, the third voltage being different from the first voltage.