what is covert channel

Covert Channel in C

A covert channel in C refers to a method of communication that allows processes to transfer information in a way that violates the system's security policy. This can occur through shared resources or inter-process communication mechanisms, and it can be used to leak information from one process to another without proper authorization.

Covert channels can be categorized into two types: 1. Storage Channels: These involve the direct or indirect writing and reading of data in a shared resource, such as a file or memory, to communicate information. 2. Timing Channels: These involve the use of variations in the timing behavior of a system to communicate information.

Covert channels pose a significant security risk as they can be exploited to bypass security mechanisms and leak sensitive information.

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