HLS Trojan Classification and Its Detection Techniques for CAD-Based IP Designs

Abstract

This article presents a comprehensive coverage on Trojan classification and its detection techniques for CAD high-level synthesis (HLS) based intellectual property (IP) designs. The presented article highlights the state-of-the-art IP (hardware) Trojan types, their covert insertion sites in the design process, their payloads, as well as the detective countermeasure employed in the literature. The article also succinctly describes the threat model tackled in each HLS-IP Trojan detection technique along with its approach/functionality. The article finally provides a qualitative and quantitative analysis of each Trojan detection technique along with its comparison. © 2025 Elsevier B.V., All rights reserved.