Description

Covert timing channels convey information by modulating some aspect of system behavior over time, so that the program receiving the information can observe system behavior and infer protected information.

Extended Description

In some instances, knowing when data is transmitted between parties can provide a malicious user with privileged information. Also, externally monitoring the timing of operations can potentially reveal sensitive data. For example, a cryptographic operation can expose its internal state if the time it takes to perform the operation varies, based on the state.

Covert channels are frequently classified as either storage or timing channels. Some examples of covert timing channels are the system's paging rate, the time a certain transaction requires to execute, and the time it takes to gain access to a shared bus.

Likelihood of Exploit: Medium

Applicable Platforms
Language Class: All

Time Of Introduction

• Architecture and Design
• Implementation

Related Attack Patterns

• CAPEC-462

Common Consequences

Detection Methods
None

Potential Mitigations

Relationships

Demonstrative Examples
None

White Box Definitions
None

Black Box Definitions
None

Taxynomy Mappings

References:
None