Hackers Can Watch Your Screen Through This New Technique, Researchers Warn

The new technique makes use of AI algorithms and wireless EM monitoring.

In a chilling revelation that underscores the evolving landscape of digital espionage, a team of Uruguayan researchers has unveiled a groundbreaking method to intercept video signals transmitted through seemingly secure HDMI cables. By harnessing the power of artificial intelligence (AI), they have demonstrated the ability to decode encrypted video data from the electromagnetic radiation emitted by these cables.

The Peril of Electromagnetic Radiation

Hackers Can Watch Your Screen Through this New Technique, Researchers Warn
Researchers published a new paper detailing how hackers can read your screen. With wireless electromagnetic radiation from the HDMI cable, spying becomes easier. charlesdeluvio from Unsplash

Traditionally, intercepting video signals has been associated with outdated espionage techniques. However, this new discovery exposes a vulnerability that was previously overlooked. According to TechSpot, the researchers found that the electromagnetic energy emanating from HDMI cables, even when encrypted, contains enough information for an AI model to interpret. This means that sensitive data, including passwords and confidential information, could potentially be stolen without physical access to the target device.

AI-Powered Video Decryption

The breakthrough lies in the development of an AI model capable of deciphering the complex patterns within electromagnetic radiation. Coupled with text recognition software, the system can "read" the intercepted data with an impressive accuracy rate of 70%.

While this might not seem perfect, it's somehow a new method that hackers can use to "electronically" spy on our screens. It's even better than the previous methods.

A New Era of Espionage

The implications of this discovery are profound. It signals a new era of espionage where adversaries can potentially monitor targets remotely by simply intercepting electromagnetic signals.

Government agencies, corporations, and individuals handling sensitive information are now at increased risk. The researchers warn that this technique, or similar variants, could already be exploited by state-sponsored hackers and industrial spies, according to PC World.

Protecting Against Electromagnetic Threats

While the average user is unlikely to be targeted, organizations handling sensitive data must reassess their security measures. Implementing electromagnetic shielding can help mitigate the risk of interception. Additionally, employees who work from home should be made aware of the potential threat and encouraged to adopt security best practices.

The revelation of this vulnerability highlights the urgent need for ongoing research and development in cybersecurity. As technology continues to advance, so too will the methods employed by malicious actors.

To view the study, visit Arxiv for more information.

In another cybersecurity report, Kaspersky is now preparing to leave the US anytime soon. With the government ban order imposed on the Russian cybersecurity firm last month, the antivirus maker is more than ready to exit the US market.

The US government imposed the ban due to allegations linking Kaspersky to the Russian government. According to the administration, it poses security concerns to the national safety.

It is expected that more layoffs will happen in Kaspersky. The operations will also be halted as a result.

Joseph Henry
Tech Times
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