Covert Data Storage Channel Using IP Packet Headers

A covert data channel is a communications channel that is hidden within the medium of a legitimate communications channel. Covert channels manipulate a communications medium in an unexpected or unconventional way in order to transmit information in an almost undetectable fashion. Otherwise said, a covert data channel transfers arbitrary bytes between two points in a fashion that would appear legitimate to someone scrutinizing the exchange. (Bingham, 2006)