Nebula
02-29-2008, 08:55 AM
"Researchers Find A Way To Steal Encypted Data"
SAN FRANCISCO — A group led by a Princeton University computer security researcher has developed a simple method to steal encrypted information stored on computer hard disks.
The technique, which could undermine security software protecting critical data on computers, is as easy as chilling a computer memory chip with a blast of frigid air from a can of dust remover. Encryption software is widely used by companies and government agencies, notably in portable computers that are especially susceptible to theft.
***My Personal 2 Cents***
While this does impose a security issue - I would say the risk is relatively low. As explained in the article the "attacker" has to be present at the machine when the system is shut down and within seconds (or -up to- minutes) they would have to open the case and spray the system with cold air to retain the information. I could only see this really being an issue if some one did some Mission impossible shit - but I guess you never know. Where there is a will - there is a way. Interesting, none the less.
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/02/22/technology/22chip.html?_r=2&ref=technology&oref=slogin&oref=slogin
SAN FRANCISCO — A group led by a Princeton University computer security researcher has developed a simple method to steal encrypted information stored on computer hard disks.
The technique, which could undermine security software protecting critical data on computers, is as easy as chilling a computer memory chip with a blast of frigid air from a can of dust remover. Encryption software is widely used by companies and government agencies, notably in portable computers that are especially susceptible to theft.
***My Personal 2 Cents***
While this does impose a security issue - I would say the risk is relatively low. As explained in the article the "attacker" has to be present at the machine when the system is shut down and within seconds (or -up to- minutes) they would have to open the case and spray the system with cold air to retain the information. I could only see this really being an issue if some one did some Mission impossible shit - but I guess you never know. Where there is a will - there is a way. Interesting, none the less.
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/02/22/technology/22chip.html?_r=2&ref=technology&oref=slogin&oref=slogin