Hello hivers, good day and welcome to today’s midweek security tip.
In today’s episode, I’m going to be talking about the OMG cable. (A dangerous USB cable every device owner should be aware of.)
Before we dive into some scary things this OMG cable can do, let’s know how the OMG name came about.
MG the creator of the O.MG cable chose the name as a play on words. It’s a combination of "OMG" ("Oh my God," often used as an expression of surprise or astonishment) and "O" which can stand for the hacker’s own branding or identity. Essentially, the name captures the surprising and sneaky nature of the cable.
The O.MG cable is a sneaky little gadget. It looks like a regular USB cable, but it’s actually a hacking tool designed for security research. Basically, it’s a USB cable with a hidden microcontroller inside. The cable can be used to exploit devices by connecting them to a computer and then executing commands without the target user being aware.
The OMG cable is a versatile piece of tech gear designed to help with various tasks, primarily related to bypassing security features or unlocking devices. It’s a USB cable that when connected to a device, can simulate a keyboard or other input device. It’s mostly used for its ability to access certain locked systems or perform actions like resetting passwords or initiating certain commands without needing to go through normal authentication processes.
In a world where technology is rapidly evolving. Where we’re now the ones in control of our finance, surrounded by Artificial Intelligence, robots, and other technological innovations, What happens when this versatile piece of tech gear enters the wrong hand?
- The O.MG cable can be controlled remotely once it’s connected to a device. This means an actor doesn't need to be physically present after the cable is plugged in. We have to be really careful on who we share cables with or who we give our devices to work on when they start malfunctioning.
- The O.MG cable could be used as a delivery mechanism for Ransomware. Once it’s installed on a target device, the cable could initiate the execution of ransomware, which would lock the target’s files (confidential and private files) and demand payment to unlock them.
- An actor could program the cable to execute commands that might steal data, personal photos, seed phrases, passwords. Delete files, or gain unauthorized access to sensitive information. And this is usually worse when you’re working for a reputable company or business.
- The O.MG cable are of various versions. Some versions of the O.MG cable allows the actor to program it to act as an USB Rubber Ducky, which is a hacking tool that mimics human behaviour (e.g., typing). It could bypass lock screens and interact with system settings. Now imagine the mayhem that could erupt when we leave our devices for 4 minutes to sleep.
The O.MG cable takes advantage of the assumption that USB ports are secure and that a charging cable doesn’t pose a risk.
Here are some ways to defend against it:
- Disable or limit access to USB ports on systems that don't need USB ports for regular operation.
- Physical Security: Don’t leave devices unattended in public spaces where someone could plug in an O.MG cable.
- Use USB Data Blockers: These devices only allow charging and prevent data transfer, rendering the O.MG cable ineffective. Juice-Jack Defender, PortaPow USB Data Blocker are common USB data blockers to use.
- Security Software: Keep software up to date and use anti-malware tools that can identify suspicious activity.
- Also, create in you that awareness of the risks associated with public charging stations, and avoid plugging into unknown USB ports or chargers.
Let’s constantly remind ourselves of these in our everyday dealings especially as technology is evolving.
Do well to reblog to create awareness.
Thank you for stopping by.
Images by me