Copying a Key by Listening to It in Action

Researchers are using recordings of keys being used in locks to create copies. Once they have a key-insertion audio file, SpiKey’s inference software gets to work filtering the signal to reveal the strong, metallic clicks as key ridges hit the lock’s pins [and you can hear those filtered clicks online here]. These clicks are vital to the inference analysis: the… Continue reading Copying a Key by Listening to It in Action

Smart Lock Vulnerability

Yet another Internet-connected door lock is insecure: Sold by retailers including Amazon, Walmart, and Home Depot, U-Tec’s $139.99 UltraLoq is marketed as a "secure and versatile smart deadbolt that offers keyless entry via your Bluetooth-enabled smartphone and code." Users can share temporary codes and ‘Ekeys’ to friends and guests for scheduled access, but according to Tripwire researcher Craig Young, a… Continue reading Smart Lock Vulnerability

Attack Against PC Thunderbolt Port

The attack requires physical access to the computer, but it’s pretty devastating: On Thunderbolt-enabled Windows or Linux PCs manufactured before 2019, his technique can bypass the login screen of a sleeping or locked computer — and even its hard disk encryption — to gain full access to the computer’s data. And while his attack in many cases requires opening a… Continue reading Attack Against PC Thunderbolt Port

Ridiculously Insecure Smart Lock

Tapplock sells an "unbreakable" Internet-connected lock that you can open with your fingerprint. It turns out that: The lock broadcasts its Bluetooth MAC address in the clear, and you can calculate the unlock key from it. Any Tapplock account an unlock every lock. You can open the lock with a screwdriver. Regarding the third flaw, the manufacturer has responded that… Continue reading Ridiculously Insecure Smart Lock