Modern computing devices unintentionally leak sensitive information through physical side channels—like power fluctuations, electromagnetic radiation, or even subtle LED brightness changes. These leaks can be exploited by attackers using simple tools like cameras, posing serious risks to industries handling sensitive data, such as finance, healthcare, and defense. Traditional cybersecurity measures often overlook these hardware-level vulnerabilities, creating a gap that needs addressing.

Consultancy for Side-Channel Defense

One way to address this gap is through a specialized consultancy focused on defensive strategies against side-channel attacks, particularly those involving visual leaks (e.g., extracting data from LED flickers). The consultancy could offer:

• Vulnerability assessments—identifying weak points like poorly shielded hardware or exposed LEDs.
• Custom mitigation plans—such as diffusing LEDs, adding noise to cryptographic operations, or restricting camera access in sensitive areas.
• Training programs—teaching in-house teams to detect and respond to emerging threats.

Over time, the consultancy could expand into developing automated tools, like real-time camera systems that flag suspicious LED patterns.

Target Clients and Revenue Streams

Potential beneficiaries include financial institutions, government agencies, healthcare providers, and IoT manufacturers—all of whom handle sensitive data and face regulatory risks. Revenue could come from:

• Consulting fees for assessments and mitigation plans.
• Licensing software tools for threat detection.
• Workshops and training programs for corporate security teams.

Unlike broad cybersecurity firms, this consultancy would differentiate itself with niche expertise in physical side-channel threats and partnerships with academic researchers.

Execution and Competitive Edge

A phased approach could start with an MVP offering LED-based vulnerability assessments, then evolve into software prototypes and hardware partnerships. Key advantages over existing solutions include:

• Real-world focus—unlike lab tools (e.g., Rambus DPA), it would prioritize practical, deployable fixes.
• Comprehensive coverage—addressing visual, acoustic, and electromagnetic leaks, not just power analysis.

To overcome skepticism, free proof-of-concept demonstrations could showcase tangible risks, such as replicating an LED attack on a client’s device.