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ETHERLED, this is this new attack that puts the networks in check

There are many attacks that can put our devices and systems at risk. New techniques are constantly appearing that can exploit vulnerabilities, malware that can steal data, or viruses that affect performance. In this article we echo a new attack that puts networks in check. We are going to explain what it consists of ETHERLEDsince it is a different method than what we are used to.

ETHERLED, an attack that compromises your devices

With ETHERLED we are facing a type of attack that is directed at isolated systems. It requires the installation of malware, but also something more peculiar: the use of LEDs to transmit information. It is a fairly effective method that can compromise very diverse devices that have a network card.

It has been discovered by security researcher Mordechai Guri. Here we can name Computer equipment such as computers, IoT devices, NAS systems, printers, televisions… Basically any device that has a network card. It is based on transmitters and receivers of information. It will sneak malware into the computer and from there control it through the LEDs.

This is what allows control appliances such as surveillance cameras. It sends a signal in Morse code through LEDs through the network cards. Surveillance cameras will act as receivers and the range may be greater or less depending on the type of device.

Therefore, with the ETHERLED attack method, systems will filter data via the LEDs on the network card. What it is going to do is convert the lights into a morse code system that will be captured by other devices and thus initiate the attack. This is achieved through malware that will update the firmware of the network card and thus initiate the attack.

Security researchers have shown what kind of data they can steal through this method. For example we can name passwords, PIN codes, encrypted keys or text files.

Firmware Malware Attacks

What to do to avoid problems

As you see, through led lights They can steal information. What can we do to prevent it? The first thing is to prevent the entry of malware. That is going to be essential to prevent them from launching this type of attack. For this you can use a good antivirus and keep everything up to date, but also avoid making mistakes that could infect the system.

In addition, you can physically avoid ETHERLED method by covering the status LEDs and thus blocking the signal emission, in addition to restricting the cameras in sensitive areas. Introducing noise that can interfere with the signal could also help prevent this type of attack on network devices.

However, something that cannot be missing is detecting the problem. Whenever you see something strange, and in this case it could be flashing LED lights, you should take action as soon as possible. This way you will prevent a hacker from completing an attack and stealing personal information. Having the network card updated can prevent many attacks.

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