Machine Learning Detects Stealthy Hardware Trojans via Side-Channel Analysis

Hardware Trojans (HTs) pose a serious threat to integrated circuit (IC) security. Detection of HTs is extremely challenging due to their stealthy nature. Side-channel analysis techniques have emerged as promising approaches for HT detection by observing anomalies in physical parameters like power or delay. More recently, machine learning (ML) methods have been explored to enhance the accuracy and efficiency of side-channel based HT detection. Background: This paper presents a novel approach using machine learning techniques to detect stealthy hardware Trojans through side-channel analysis. Hardware Trojans, malicious modifications inserted into integrated circuits during manufacturing, pose significant threats to the integrity and security of electronic systems. Traditional methods of detecting these Trojans often rely on known signatures or specific patterns, making them ineffective against subtle and sophisticated attacks. Method: This paper provides a comprehensive review of research advancements in applying ML for side-channel based HT detection. First, an overview of HT attacks, their classification, threat models and detection challenges is presented. Next, various side-channel parameters like power, temperature, delay and electromagnetic emanations used for HT detection are discussed along with their merits and demerits. Furthermore, the application of supervised, unsupervised and semi-supervised ML algorithms for automated feature extraction and intelligent decision making is elucidated in detail. Result: Specifically, the data collection strategies, feature extraction techniques, ML models and performance evaluation metrics adopted in existing literature are critically reviewed. In addition, the limitations of current approaches and promising future research directions like on-chip ML implementation, hierarchical ML and explainable ML models tailored for HT detection are highlighted. Conclusion: Case studies on benchmark circuits are also presented to demonstrate the efficacy of ML-based side-channel HT detection methods. Through an extensive literature review and incisive analysis, this paper provides contemporary insights on the advancement of ML techniques to enable robust side-channel based HT detection for securing next-generation ICs.