Side channel attack

Term Key terms bank Y12 Secure Software Architecture

Also listed as: Side-channel attack

Definition

An attack that learns secrets from indirect information such as timing, power use or electromagnetic emissions rather than breaking the algorithm. Protect with constant-time code, noise and physical shielding.

Example: Measuring response time to guess a password character.

Found in: syllabus, school notes.

Short version to memorise (key terms bank)

Learning secrets from timing, power or electromagnetic leakage.

Where it is used in the test

Syllabus area: Y12 Secure Software Architecture.

Question types it can appear in

Short answer: Define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.
Multiple choice: Pick the option that matches the definition or example.
Fill in the blanks: Choose this term to complete a statement or table.

No past question in this bank is linked to this term yet. It can still be tested through the question types above.

Study links

Flashcard: Side channel attack in Secure Software Architecture (Year 12) · study that set
Memorise: User action controls: broken authentication, XSS, CSRF, forwarding, race conditions
Key terms bank entry: Side-channel attack
Notes: Design, develop and implement secure code to protect user file and hardware… (Secure Software Architecture (Year 12))
Notes: File attacks and side-channel attacks (Secure Software Architecture (Year 12))

How to use it in an answer

A model sentence

General advice, built from the definition and example above

“An attack that learns secrets from indirect information such as timing, power use or electromagnetic emissions rather than breaking the algorithm.” Then apply it: Measuring response time to guess a password character.

In a short answer, give the definition in your own words first, then tie it to the situation in the question. Do not copy the example above unless it fits the scenario.

Command words used with it

General advice

No linked question shows the command word for this term. Across the past short answer questions in this bank the words used most are: Explain, Outline, Describe, Compare, Classify, Analyse. Check the actual word in your question.

Technique for the question types

Short answer: One clear point per mark, use the stimulus and course terms, and answer the command word.
Multiple choice: Read all four options, rule out wrong ones, pick one; no penalty for guessing so never leave blank.
Fill in the blanks: Choose the right word from a list; use exact syllabus terms.

Common mistakes