Electromagnetic Side-Channel Analysis of Cryptographically Secured Devices

Electromagnetic (EM) side-channel analysis has emerged as a significant threat to cryptographically secured devices, particularly in the era of the Internet of Things (IoT).

These attacks exploit information leakages through physical parameters such as EM radiation, which is emitted by all powered electronic devices due to internal current flows.

Unlike traditional power analysis attacks, EM side-channel attacks can be performed non-invasively using low-cost EM probes, making them more accessible and affordable for potential attackers.

Methodology

The methodology behind EM side-channel attacks typically involves two phases: data collection and analysis.

In the first phase, EM emanations from a device are captured using EM probes, often connected to a low-noise amplifier for better signal quality.

The collected traces are then analyzed using various models, including Simple Electromagnetic Analysis (SEMA), Differential Electromagnetic Analysis (DEMA), and Correlation Electromagnetic Analysis (CEMA).

CEMA is particularly effective as it can retrieve secret keys without requiring detailed knowledge of the device’s operations.

For instance, a CEMA attack on the PRESENT lightweight cipher can recover up to 8 bytes of a 10-byte encryption key using just 256 EM waveforms.

Impact

Recent studies have highlighted the importance of preprocessing techniques in enhancing the efficiency of EM side-channel attacks.

By applying optimal preprocessing methods, the number of traces required for key recovery can be significantly reduced, improving the success rate of attacks.

Additionally, profiling attacks, such as template and machine learning-based methods, have shown promising results in extracting sensitive information from complex devices like System-on-Chips (SoCs).

To mitigate EM side-channel vulnerabilities, researchers have proposed various countermeasures.

One approach involves routing cryptographic signals through lower metal layers to reduce EM leakage, as demonstrated by the STELLAR solution.

This method aims to eliminate critical signal radiation from higher metal layers, thus enhancing the security of cryptographic ICs.

Furthermore, ongoing research focuses on developing low-overhead solutions that can protect against both power and EM side-channel attacks, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive security strategy in the design of future cryptographic devices.

As EM side-channel analysis continues to evolve, it is crucial for device manufacturers to integrate robust countermeasures to safeguard against these increasingly sophisticated threats.

Are you from SOC/DFIR Teams? – Analyse Malware Incidents & get live Access with ANY.RUN -> Start Now for Free.

Keep your files stored safely and securely with the SanDisk 2TB Extreme Portable SSD. With over 69,505 ratings and an impressive 4.6 out of 5 stars, this product has been purchased over 8K+ times in the past month. At only $129.99, this Amazon’s Choice product is a must-have for secure file storage.

Help keep private content private with the included password protection featuring 256-bit AES hardware encryption. Order now for just $129.99 on Amazon!

Help Power Techcratic’s Future – Scan To Support

If Techcratic’s content and insights have helped you, consider giving back by supporting the platform with crypto. Every contribution makes a difference, whether it’s for high-quality content, server maintenance, or future updates. Techcratic is constantly evolving, and your support helps drive that progress.

As a solo operator who wears all the hats, creating content, managing the tech, and running the site, your support allows me to stay focused on delivering valuable resources. Your support keeps everything running smoothly and enables me to continue creating the content you love. I’m deeply grateful for your support, it truly means the world to me! Thank you!