The European Research Council (ERC) awards Starting Grant to theoretical computer scientist Klaus Freiherr von Gleissenthal for his research into side-channel leaks which give attackers the opportunity to steal sensitive data. With the SecuStack project, Freiherr von Gleissenthal aims to enhance the security of our digital data.
Dangerous leaks
Klaus will be focusing on side-channel leaks which allow attackers to steal sensitive data from our computer systems. These leaks turn out to be not only dangerous but also extremely difficult to eliminate. “I believe that this is due to a mismatch in our understanding of today’s computers: modern hardware is incredibly complex, yet when we think about its security, our models are often too simplistic, which leaves room for attacks,” the researcher explains.
From model to computer systems
The SecuStack project aims to bridge this gap by understanding leaks right down to the tiniest components of the hardware – its gates, flip-flops (digital electronic circuits) and wires. By creating detailed models that will show exactly when and where the leaks occur in computer hardware, software defenses tailored toward specific computer architectures can be developed. The researchers plug all the leaks that can actually occur on a given processor so they can create computer systems that are probably safe against side-channel attacks; from hardware all the way up to the software.
Security of our digital data
SecuStack strives to enhance our digital data security; from photos, emails and texts to crucial medical or financial information. Their goal is to make digital interactions more robust and trustworthy, as well as to ensure that our devices are protected against even the most sophisticated attacks. In order to achieve this the team will delve deep into the fundamental vulnerabilities of computer systems. In the end they hope to showcase their findings through end-to-end secure real-world applications that others can build upon.
ERC Starting Grant
The Starting Grant from the ERC is awarded to talented early-career scientists who have already produced excellent supervised work, are ready to work independently and show potential to be a research leader.