Processor for correlation-based infinite loop detection

A processor comprises an execution unit and a detection unit which are functionally connected. The execution unit is configured to execute computer programs, and the detection unit is configured to detect infinite loops during the execution of a computer program in the execution unit during run-time. The computer program has a plurality of go-to instructions, and each go-to instruction is characterized by a corresponding branch address. The detection unit is configured to calculate a detection function of the branch addresses of a branch sequence, the branch sequence including a sequence of executed go-to instructions. The detection function is chosen such that an increased value of the detection function is characteristic of an infinite loop in the branch sequence in which at least one go-to instruction is repeated.