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Graphics Programs Uncover Secret PINs
Errtu76 writes "The BBC is running a story stating that, among other programs, The Gimp and Photoshop have been identified as possible tools for uncovering PINs via the mail." From the article: "The researchers collected lots of so-called Pin mailers and then tested how secure they were. Many were defeated using bright lights shone at an angle on to the paper. Other Pins could be read by scanning the letter and then adjusting some of the image qualities in popular programs such as GIMP, Adobe Photoshop and Paintshop Pro."
OMFG the Gimp icon just looked at me
No one knew until now that scanning a document in black and white and adjusting the black/white threshold value can make it easier to read marginal text? Wow. Sounds like a patent application to me. Whatever.
The NSA: The only part of the US government that actually listens.
How well does it work at blocking CIA mind-control rays? I'm worried that my tinfoil hat isn't up to the task against their post-9/11 spy satellite upgrades.
In the immortal words of Dr. Nick's Diet:
// On my way to the ATM machine.
"If you're unsure about something, rub it against a piece of paper. If the paper turns clear, its your window to weight gain!"
Have fun eating greasy chicken and stealing PIN numbers
/ Thats right, I said PIN Number.
I use passwdgen and make 3-5 passwords and write them on sticky notes and stick to my monitor. Kinda funny when people ask, "Arent you the security guy?"
Paying taxes to buy civilization is like paying a hooker to buy love.
No, beer keeps honest men lazy.
I knew this article would eventually make it to slashdot after i saw the rare mention of the GIMP in mainstream media...
I think the point is that none of the passwords on the sticky note are actually in use.
Which begs the really Zen-like question:
"If a password is not in use, is it really a password or just a bunch of letters and numbers (and whatever else you use)?"
This sig is made from 100% recycled bytes. No keys were typed in the creation process.