Abstract: A dummy write operation is disclosed that mimics an actual write operation to a memory array. In some implementations, a dummy write operation mimics an actual write operation by starting a charge pump, selecting a correct data line in the memory array, and by following the sequencing of an actual write operation. By mimicking an actual write operation, an attacker cannot use power analysis to distinguish between dummy and actual write operations. For example, PIN comparison operations would present the same or substantially the same power trace for both positive and negative comparisons, making it difficult for an attacker to determine if a retry count was written to NVM.

Abstract: A dummy write operation is disclosed that mimics an actual write operation to a memory array. In some implementations, a dummy write operation mimics an actual write operation by starting a charge pump, selecting a correct data line in the memory array, and by following the sequencing of an actual write operation. By mimicking an actual write operation, an attacker cannot use power analysis to distinguish between dummy and actual write operations. For example, PIN comparison operations would present the same or substantially the same power trace for both positive and negative comparisons, making it difficult for an attacker to determine if a retry count was written to NVM.