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The Study of Physical Hacks at DefCon

eldavojohn writes "DefCon usually focuses on electronic security, but Saturday a talk was held that focused on possibly the oldest form of hacking — lockpicking. As software security becomes better and better, the focus may be shifting towards simple hacking tips like looking over someone's shoulder for their password, faking employment or just picking the locks to gain access to the building where machines are left on overnight. From the article: 'Medeco deadbolt locks relied on worldwide at embassies, banks and other tempting targets for thieves, spies or terrorists can be opened in seconds with a strip of metal and a thin screw driver, Marc Tobias of Security.org demonstrated for AFP ... Tobias says he refuses to publish details of 'defeating' the locks because they are used in places ranging from homes, banks and jewelers to the White House and the Pentagon. He asked AFP not to disclose how it is done.' I'm sure all Slashdot readers are savvy enough to use firewall(s) but do you know and trust what locks 'physically' protect your data from hacks like these?"

3 of 299 comments (clear)

  1. Am I the only one slightly amused... by weak* · · Score: 0, Flamebait

    ...by a bunch of people who were shaken down for lunch money in grade school talking about physical security?

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    The Schwartz space ain't from Spaceballs.
  2. ..refuses to publish details.. by nurb432 · · Score: 0, Flamebait

    Anyone can make *claims*. Either put up or shut up.

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    ---- Booth was a patriot ----
  3. Re:Backstop that lock... by dcam · · Score: 0, Flamebait

    The right to violent self-defense is essential to freedom...

    It is also essential to get those high homicide rates. Your call.

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    meh