'DiskFiltration' is a malware technique developed by researchers from the cyber security labs at Ben-Gurion University in Israel. The system is able to wirelessly steal information from air-gapped computers -- i.e. computers that are completely isolated from any Internet, Bluetooth, or other wireless connection to other devices.
The 'DiskFiltration' system works through the manipulation of the only type of wireless emission that an air-gapped computer can't control: sound waves. When a hard drive's actuator reads or writes information on the disk, it makes minute noises. The DiskFiltration malware takes advantage of these noises, manipulating the hard drive's actuator to pass codes to a smartphone within six feet of the infected hard drive.
Granted, the DiskFiltration system won't work on a computer without the malware already installed, so a clean air-gapped computer is safe. Nonetheless, the technique could pose serious cyber security issues if it isn't addressed.
Sound-Based Malware Systems
'DiskFiltration' Gathers Data By Listening to Hard Drives
Trend Themes
1. Sound-based Malware - There is a trend of using sound waves to manipulate computer systems for malicious purposes.
2. Wireless Data Theft - There is a trend of developing techniques to steal data from air-gapped computers wirelessly.
3. Cyber Security Threats - There is a trend of evolving cyber security threats that exploit vulnerabilities in isolated computer systems.
Industry Implications
1. Information Technology - The IT industry should focus on developing robust security measures to protect computer systems from sound-based malware attacks.
2. Cyber Security - The cyber security industry can benefit from offering specialized solutions to detect and prevent wireless data theft from air-gapped computers.
3. Technology Research - The technology research industry should invest in finding innovative ways to counter evolving cyber security threats and vulnerabilities.