Researchers Details How Hackers Can Steal Passwords via HDMI Cables

Security researchers have found a new way for hackers to steal sensitive information like passwords by eavesdropping on HDMI cables. This is a worrying development for computer users.

‘Researchers at Universidad de la República in Uruguay discovered that hackers can use artificial intelligence (AI) to decode signals from HDMI cables and see what’s displayed on a computer screen.

They found they could capture the electromagnetic signals from HDMI cables using readily available radio equipment.

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By using deep learning AI to analyze these signals, they could reconstruct text and images from the screen with about 70% accuracy.

Lead researcher Federico Larroca explained that this accuracy level is often enough for attackers to read passwords, sensitive data, or even encrypted messages on a screen.

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Their AI system significantly improved the success rate of such eavesdropping attacks, reducing errors by over 60 percentage points.

While it was previously known that older CRT monitors had similar vulnerabilities, modern HDMI connections were thought to be more secure due to their complex digital signals.

However, this new research shows that AI can bypass these security measures, potentially putting millions of computer users at risk.

The good news is that such an attack requires advanced technical skills and specialized equipment. Average home users are unlikely to be targeted.

However, government agencies and large corporations could be more vulnerable to sophisticated attackers.

Federico Larroca warned that advanced hackers or state-level actors might already use similar techniques. An attacker could capture HDMI signals outside a building using hidden equipment, such as in a nearby vehicle.

To protect against this threat, cybersecurity experts recommend being cautious when handling sensitive information, especially near windows or public places.

Using encrypted connections and avoiding showing passwords on external monitors connected via HDMI can also help reduce risks.

The researchers have shared their findings openly to help improve defense measures. This discovery reminds us of the importance of being aware of new digital privacy and security threats.

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