Attack target: microchips Quantum sensors are supposed to identify potential side-channel attacks

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How can quantum sensors be utilized for side-channel attacks on microchips? This intriguing question is at the heart of the SCA-QS research project. Leveraging their superior sensitivity, quantum sensors could potentially reveal new attack vectors, fundamentally reshaping the landscape of security technology.

Quantum sensors are being used to identify new attack vectors on microchips in security-critical environments. Quantum sensors, known for their superior resolution and sensitivity, could represent a new leap in quality in security research and technology.

Thanks to their higher resolution, quantum sensors capture finer details of electromagnetic emissions or other physical quantities that cannot be detected with conventional sensors. In addition, they can detect weaker signals that would otherwise be drowned out by noise.

The project 'Side Channel Attacks with Quantum Sensing' (SCA-QS) is divided into two phases. The first phase focuses on verifying the basic suitability of quantum sensing for side channel analysis. This involves a comprehensive comparison between the new quantum sensors and conventional methods to assess their potential and effectiveness. A detailed documentation of the results will be recorded in a final report.

In the second phase, promising approaches based on the findings from the first phase will be further developed and demonstrated in a new laboratory setup. This proof of concept is intended to enable the application of the developed technologies in real-life safety-critical scenarios.

What is a side-channel attack?

Side-channel attacks are a class of attacks on cryptographic systems and other security-critical systems where attackers take advantage of unintentionally released information to access confidential data. These attacks do not target weaknesses in the theoretical security of algorithms, but their physical implementations.

Scientific collaboration and networking

A central aspect of the project is networking experts from quantum sensing and side channel attacks. The initial information and partnering event on June 10, 2024, laid the foundation for long-term scientific exchange and collaboration. This interdisciplinary approach aims to create synergies and foster mutual understanding between the two research areas.

Through the collaboration and exchange between the previously largely separate scientific communities of quantum sensor technology and side channel attacks, a new level of security research is reached. The project thus promotes not only technological innovations, but also interdisciplinary cooperation for the active shaping of the future of security technology.

New quantum sensors for side-channel attacks

The main research questions include the investigation of the potentials of new quantum sensors for side channel attacks, the evaluation of relevant measurement parameters and parameters, and the identification of new attack vectors that could arise from improved sensor properties. In addition, the research aims to solve the problem of which quantum sensor approaches are suitable to at least achieve or even exceed the functionality, sensitivity, and resolution of existing systems.

The targeted technology readiness level (TRL) of the project ranges between stages 3 and 4. With this forward-looking research, the SCA-QS project positions itself at the forefront of technological development and could significantly contribute to increasing the security of microchips. (heh)

Link: Cyberagency