Hack a computer with Firewire
This is a bit scary…Adam Boileau, a computer security consultant in New Zealand, found a way to by pass Windows XP security using the Firewire port. Just connect a Firewire cable from a Linux computer to a Windows XP machine, run a command, and you’re in–the Windows machine is unlocked.
The way it works is by simply taking advantage of a feature of the Firewire spec itself, so this one isn’t Microsoft’s fault. Firewire allows for direct memory access, so this hack just tricks the operating system into granting it to the connected Linux computer.
Mac users aren’t save either as the same hack has been demonstrated on Mac OS X as well.
Tip: If your computer has a Firewire port and you’re not using it, disable it.
[Via Engadget]
Filed under: tech, tips | Tagged: mac, linux, security, windows, hack, firewire
