Oops!...I think I scanned a malware
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This article presents a proof-of-concept illustrating the feasibility of creating a covert channel between a C\&C server and a malware installed in an organization by exploiting an organization's scanner and using it as a means of interaction. We take advantage of the light sensitivity of a flatbed scanner, using a light source to infiltrate data to an organization. We present an implementation of the method for different purposes (even to trigger a ransomware attack) in various experimental setups using: (1) a laser connected to a stand (2) a laser carried by a drone, and (3) a hijacked smart bulb within the targeted organization from a passing car. In our experiments we were able to infiltrate data using different types of light sources (including infrared light), from a distance of up to 900 meters away from the scanner. We discuss potential counter measures to prevent the attack.
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Cited by 1 Pith paper
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("Oops! Had the silly thing in reverse")---Optical injection attacks in through LED status indicators
LED status indicators on microcontrollers can act as optical receivers, enabling data injection attacks with bandwidth approaching 1 Mbit/s under realistic compromise conditions.
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