Windows and OS X Vulnerable Via Firewire
It seems like everyday computer users have a new reason to fear that their data is unsafe. And to be fair, it isn't. Unless you lock vital PC components up in separate bank quality vaults, encrypt all your data, and never go online, you're always in some danger, and at that point what use is a computer anyway? But every once in a while a hacker demonstrates a vulnerability in our computers that makes us second guess our ability to be even slightly secure.First it was breaking encryption with a can of DustOff, then a flash drive hack that required a simple (if slow) reboot, and now an even more direct attack: connecting via Firewire to the target computer.
The new method requires only a Linux based laptop and a Firewire cable. An attacker can then get to the contents of your system's RAM and grab your password. This works on both Windows (Vista and XP) and OS X. So much for Macs being more secure.
From Engadget
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Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
brenda @ Mar 5th 2008 11:59PM
Not a big security threat, since it would be relatively obvious if another laptop was connected into a firewire chain.
Should be very easy for Apple and Microsoft to write a security patch.
Bill @ Mar 6th 2008 4:47AM
Yeah, because Mac users connect to the internet through FireWire. Terrence O'Brien is an idiot. Shut up.
wrchadwell @ Mar 6th 2008 7:38AM
What a dumb article. In addition to "only a Linux based laptop and a Firewire cable", it requires physical access to your machine. Once someone has your laptop, the prudent approach would be to consider all bets off. The solution: don't lose your laptop.
Dumb.