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Chinese cyber espionage: a data leak reveals the secrets of their hackers

Unprecedented Data Leaks Expose Chinese Cyber Espionage Programs

Following an unprecedented data leak from a Beijing regime hacking service provider, the secrets of Chinese cyberespionage are revealed. The I-Soon company is said to have infiltrated dozens of strategic targets around the world. This is what you will discover here by reading this brief cyberculture. Unprecedented data leaks reveal China’s cyberespionage program.
Following an unprecedented data leak from a Beijing regime hacking service provider, the secrets of Chinese cyberespionage are revealed. Based on the analysis of this data, it appears that the I-Soon company has infiltrated dozens of strategic targets around the world. This is what you will discover here by reading this brief Cyberculture.

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Read the secrets of Chinese cyber espionage revealed by an unprecedented data leak, written by Jacques Gascuel, a pioneer of contactless, serverless and databaseless sensitive data security solutions. Stay up to date and secure with our frequent updates..

Chinese cyber espionage I-Soon: A data leak reveals the secrets of their hackers

Chinese cyber espionage poses a serious threat to the security and stability of the world. Many countries and organizations face hackers who try to steal sensitive information, disrupt critical infrastructure, or influence political outcomes. One of the most active and sophisticated cyber espionage actors is China, which has a large and diverse hacking program. But how does China conduct its cyber operations? What methods, targets, and objectives does it have? And how can we protect ourselves from its attacks?

In this brief, we will explore these questions of Chinese cyber espionage, based on a recent data leak that revealed the inner workings of a Chinese cybersecurity vendor working for the Chinese government. The vendor, I-Soon, is a private contractor that operates as an advanced persistent threat (APT) for hire, serving the Chinese Ministry of Public Security (MPS). The leaked data, published on GitHub, contains hundreds of documents that document I-Soon’s Chinese cyber espionage activities, from staff complaints to hacking tools and services.

We will also look at some of the solutions that exist to counter the cyber espionage threat, both from a technical and a strategic perspective. We will focus on the solutions developed by Freemindtronic, an Andorran company that specializes in security and encryption technologies, based on the NFC HSM (Near Field Communication and Hardware Security Module) technology. We will also examine the means of counter espionage against the methods of I-Soon, which are varied and sophisticated.

I-Soon data leak reveals insight into Chinese cyber espionage hacking program

The I-Soon data leak is a significant revelation in Chinese cyber espionage, as it offers a rare glimpse into the inner workings of a major spyware and APT-for-hire provider. The leak exposes I-Soon’s methods, tools and goals, as well as the challenges and frustrations of its staff.

According to the leaked data, I-Soon infiltrated several government agencies, including those from India, Thailand, Vietnam, South Korea, and NATO. Some of the tools that I-Soon used are impressive. For example, they had a tool that could steal the user’s Twitter email and phone number, read personal messages, and publish tweets on the user’s behalf. They also had custom Remote Access Trojans (RATs) for Windows, iOS, and Android, that could perform various malicious actions, such as keylogging, file access logging, process management, and remote shell. They also had portable devices for attacking networks from the inside, and special equipment for operatives working abroad to establish safe communication.

The leak also reveals some of the challenges and difficulties that I-Soon faced, such as losing access to some of their data seized from government agencies, dealing with corrupt officials, and working in sensitive regions like Xinjiang. The leak also shows some of the internal complaints and grievances of I-Soon’s staff, such as low pay, poor management, and lack of recognition.

The leak is a treasure trove of intel for cybersecurity researchers and analysts, as it provides a rare insight into the day-to-day operations of China’s hacking program, which the FBI says is the biggest of any country. The leak also raises serious concerns for the security and sovereignty of the countries and organizations targeted by I-Soon, as it exposes the extent and the impact of China’s cyber espionage activities.

In summary, the I-Soon data leak exposed the secrets of Chinese cyber espionage, which poses a major challenge to world security and stability. Faced with this threat, it is necessary to strengthen cooperation and defense in cybersecurity, while respecting the principles of freedom and transparency on the internet. It is also important to understand China’s motivations and objectives, in order to find peaceful and lasting solutions.

Reactions and challenges to the Chinese cyber espionage threat

The revelation of the I-Soon data leak comes amid growing tensions between China and its rivals, notably the United States, which regularly accuses it of carrying out cyberattacks against their interests. China, for its part, denies any involvement and presents itself as a victim of cyberwar. Faced with this threat, the countries targeted by I-Soon are calling for strengthening their cooperation and defense in cybersecurity.

For example, the European Union adopted a legal framework in 2023 to impose sanctions on perpetrators of cyberattacks, including China. Likewise, NATO has recognized cyberspace as a domain of operation, and affirmed its willingness to retaliate in the event of an attack. Finally, democratic countries have launched initiatives to promote the values ​​of freedom and transparency on the internet, such as the Partnership for an Open and Secure Cyberspace.

However, these efforts remain insufficient to confront the Chinese threat, which has considerable resources and sophisticated strategies. It is therefore necessary to develop a global and coordinated approach, which involves governments, businesses, organizations and citizens. This would involve strengthening the resilience of information systems, sharing information and good practices, raising users’ awareness of the risks and opportunities of cyberspace, and promoting constructive dialogue with China.

The solutions of Freemindtronic against the cyber espionage threat

Facing the cyber espionage threat, especially from China, requires effective and adapted solutions, both from a technical and a strategic perspective. One of the companies that offers such solutions is Freemindtronic, an Andorran company that develops security and encryption technologies, based on the NFC HSM (Near Field Communication and Hardware Security Module) technology. The NFC HSM technology allows to create hardware security modules on any type of device, that ensure the encryption and the signature of any data, without contact, without energy source, and without internet connection.

Freemindtronic offers several solutions against the cyber espionage DataShielder Defense NFC HSM: a solution for sovereign communications, that allows to encrypt and sign any data on any type of device, with an unmatched level of confidentiality and trust. DataShielder uses the EviCore HSM OpenPGP technology, which is interoperable, retrocompatible, and versatile. DataShielder allows to customize the security of secrets, and to meet various specific needs.

  • PassCypher NFC HSM: a solution for the management and storage of passwords, that allows to create, store, and use complex and secure passwords, without having to remember or enter them. PassCypher uses the EviPass NFC HSM technology, as well as the NFC HSM devices of Freemindtronic, EviTag and EviCard. PassCypher offers a maximum security and a simplicity of use.
  • PassCypher HSM PGP: a solution for the management and storage of PGP keys, that allows to create, store, and use PGP keys, certificates, and signatures, without having to remember or enter them. PassCypher uses the EviCore HSM OpenPGP technology, as well as a hybrid solution via a web extension. PassCypher works without server and without database, and stores the encrypted containers on any storage device, protected by a post-quantum AES-256 encryption.

These solutions of Freemindtronic allow to protect oneself from the cyber espionage threat, by encrypting and signing the data, by managing and storing the passwords and the keys, and by communicating in a confidential and sovereign way. They are based on the NFC HSM technology, which guarantees a hardware and software security, without contact, without energy source, and without internet connection.

The means of counter espionage against the methods of I-Soon

Against the methods of cyber espionage of I-Soon, which are varied and sophisticated, the countries and organizations targeted must implement effective and adapted means of counter espionage. These means can be of several types:

  • Preventive: they consist of strengthening the security of the information systems, by using up-to-date software, antivirus, firewall, complex passwords, encryption protocols, etc. They also consist of training the users to good practices, such as not opening suspicious attachments or links, not disclosing confidential information, not using public or unsecured networks, etc.
  • Defensive: they consist of detecting and blocking the intrusion attempts, by using tools of surveillance, analysis, tracing, filtering, neutralization, etc. They also consist of reacting quickly and limiting the damage, by isolating the compromised systems, backing up the data, alerting the competent authorities, communicating transparently, etc.
  • Offensive: they consist of retaliating and deterring the attackers, by using tools of counter-attack, disinformation, sabotage, sanction, etc. They also consist of cooperating with the allies and partners, by sharing the information, the evidence, the strategies, the resources, etc.

These means of counter espionage must be adapted to the specificities of the methods of I-Soon, which are varied and sophisticated. For example, to face the security flaws, it is necessary to use trustworthy software, verify their integrity, and update them regularly. To face the malware, it is necessary to use efficient antivirus, scan the systems regularly, and clean them in case of infection. To face the social engineering techniques, it is necessary to raise the awareness of the users, verify the identity and the credibility of the interlocutors, and not let oneself be influenced or corrupted.

Chinese cyberespionage statistics

The I-Soon data leak constitutes unprecedented testimony to the scale and impact of Chinese cyberespionage, which is based on close collaboration between the authorities and the private sector. Here are some statistics that illustrate the phenomenon:

China spent at least US$6.6 billion on cyber censorship in 2020, according to the Jamestown Foundation.

According to official sources, at least 2 million people were working for China’s cyberespionage system in 2013, a number that has almost certainly increased over the past eight years.
GreatFire, a censorship monitoring organization in China, estimates that 16% of the world’s 1,000 most visited websites are currently blocked in China.
In 2022, ANSSI handled 19 cyber defense operations and major incidents, compared to 17 in 2021. Nine of them were intrusions attributed to Chinese actors.

In conclusion, the means of counter espionage against the methods of I-Soon are essential to protect the interests and the sovereignty of the countries and organizations targeted. They must be implemented in a coordinated and proportionate way, respecting the principles of legality and legitimacy.

PrintListener: How to Betray Fingerprints

PrintListener technology concept with NFC security solutions.

PrintListener: The Sound of your Fingers can Reveal your Fingerprints

PrintListener emerges as a groundbreaking technology challenging the reliability of fingerprint security. By capturing the unique sound of finger friction on touchscreens, it enables the reproduction of fingerprints. This innovative approach sets PrintListener apart, highlighting its potential to redefine biometric security measures. As we explore its implications, the need for heightened awareness and protective strategies becomes evident.

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Learn more through this Digital Security section on the new possibility of corrupting fingerprints written by Jacques Gascuel, creator of data security solutions. Stay informed and safe with our regular updates.

PrintListener: How this Technology can Betray your Fingerprints and How to Protect yourself

PrintListener revolutionizes the realm of Acoustic Analysis Attacks by honing in on the unique sound of finger friction on touchscreens. This novel approach allows for the replication of fingerprints, marking a significant advancement in the field. Unlike traditional techniques that broadly utilize sound to breach security, PrintListener’s methodical focus distinguishes it as a pioneering and distinct attack strategy. This specificity in exploiting fingerprint authentication systems through acoustic signals elevates PrintListener above conventional methods. As we delve deeper into PrintListener, understand the risks it poses to identity and data, and explore protective measures, this article serves as a crucial guide for safeguarding against such innovative threats.

What is PrintListener?

PrintListener is the result of a collaboration between researchers from Zhejiang University, the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, and the University of Washington. They presented their technology at the ACM CCS 2022 conference, one of the most prestigious in the field of computer security. Their paper, titled “PrintListener: Fingerprinting Smartphones from Touchscreen Sound”, describes in detail the working and evaluation of PrintListener¹.

The technology exploits the friction noise of fingers on the screen, which reveals the features of fingerprints. By analyzing this sound with advanced algorithms, PrintListener can create fingerprint copies with high accuracy. You can download the officel document “PrintListener: Uncovering the Vulnerability of Fingerprint Authentication via the Finger Friction Sound“.

How can PrintListener attack fingerprint readers?

Fingerprint readers are increasingly common on smartphones, computers, or applications. They are supposed to offer a high level of security, by verifying the user’s identity from their unique fingerprint.

But PrintListener can fool these readers, by using the fingerprint copies it has generated. The researchers showed that their software could succeed in attacking up to 27.9% of partial fingerprints and 9.3% of full fingerprints in only five attempts, even at the highest security level¹.

Hackers could thus access your accounts, data, or services without your consent. They could capture the sound of your fingers from various sources, such as speakerphone calls, voice messages, or online games.

How to protect yourself against PrintListener?

PrintListener represents a serious threat to biometric security, which was until now considered infallible. To protect yourself against this vulnerability, you should adopt proactive security measures, such as:

  • Updating your antivirus, which could detect and block PrintListener or other malware.
  • Using headphones or earphones, to prevent the sound of your fingers from being captured by the microphone of your smartphone or computer.
  • Activating other authentication modes, such as PIN code or facial recognition, which are less prone to hacking.
  • Changing your passwords regularly, and using strong and different passwords for each account.

How to corrupt a fingerprint?

If PrintListener is not yet available to the public, there are other methods to corrupt a fingerprint. Some are simpler than others, but they all require a certain level of skill and equipment.

  • Making a mold. This involves reproducing the fingerprint of a person from an object they have touched, such as a glass, a door handle, or a keyboard. You then need to use a malleable material, such as clay, wax, or gelatin, to create a faithful imprint. This imprint can then be transferred to a rigid support, such as plastic or metal, to create a fake fingerprint.
  • Using a 3D printer. This involves scanning the fingerprint of a person from a photo, a video, or an optical sensor. You then need to use a 3D modeling software to create a digital model of the fingerprint. This model can then be printed in 3D with a conductive material, such as copper or silver, to create a fake fingerprint.
  • Modifying your own fingerprint. This involves changing the appearance of your fingerprint by using invasive or non-invasive techniques. The invasive techniques consist of injuring, burning, or cutting your finger to modify the lines and ridges of the fingerprint. The non-invasive techniques consist of sticking, painting, or tattooing your finger to mimic the fingerprint of another person.

These methods are more or less effective depending on the type of fingerprint reader used. Some readers are more sensitive than others to the temperature, pressure, conductivity, or depth of the fingerprint. You therefore need to adapt your method according to the reader to attack.

Statistics on fingerprint security

Fingerprint security is widely used in various domains, such as banking, healthcare, law enforcement, or travel. However, it is not flawless, and it can be compromised by different methods, such as PrintListener or others. Here are some statistics on fingerprint security that you should know:

These statistics show that fingerprint security is a popular and growing market, but also a vulnerable and risky one. Therefore, it is important to be aware of the potential threats and to take preventive measures to protect your identity and data.

Summary and further reading

In this article, we have explained what PrintListener is, how it works, how it can attack fingerprint readers, and how to protect yourself against it. We have also provided some statistics on fingerprint security that illustrate the importance and the challenges of this technology.

PrintListener is not the only method to corrupt fingerprint authentication. There are other methods, such as making a mold, using a 3D printer, or modifying your own fingerprint. These methods are more or less effective depending on the type of fingerprint reader used.

If you want to learn more about these other methods, you can read our article (Are fingerprint systems really secure? How to protect your data and identity against BrutePrint), in the Digital Security section of our website. You will find out how they work, what are their advantages and disadvantages, and how to prevent them.

Enhancing Security with EviPass NFC HSM and EviCypher NFC HSM Technologies

Secure Physical Secret Outsourcing

In the wake of vulnerabilities exposed by PrintListener, adopting EviPass NFC HSM and EviCypher NFC HSM technologies becomes crucial. These solutions physically externalize sensitive information like passwords, encryption keys, OTP keys, and enable AES-256 encryption of data and messaging via NFC HSM devices. Even if a device’s fingerprint security is compromised, externally stored secrets remain inviolable, safeguarding encrypted data and messages.

Summary and Conclusion

PrintListener has shed light on significant flaws within fingerprint authentication systems, underscoring the urgent need for enhanced security measures. The integration of EviPass NFC HSM and EviCypher NFC HSM technologies offers a robust solution, physically externalizing and encrypting sensitive information beyond the reach of acoustic fingerprint hacking. This approach not only fortifies biometric security but also ensures the integrity of encrypted data and communications, providing a comprehensive shield against emerging threats.

Brute Force Attacks: What They Are and How to Protect Yourself

Brute Force Attacks Cyber Attack Guide
brute force attacks by Jacques Gascuel: This article will be updated with any new information on the topic.

Everything You Need to Know About Brute-force Attacks

80% of cyberattacks are brute force attacks. This technique tests all combinations to find a system’s password, key, or URL. These attacks threaten the security of your data. How to protect yourself? What tools and practices should be adopted? This article explains.

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Brute-force Attacks: A Comprehensive Guide to Understand and Prevent Them

Brute Force: danger and protection 80% of cyberattacks are brute force attacks. This technique tests all combinations to find the password, key, URL or hash of a system. These attacks threaten the security of your data. How to protect yourself? What tools and practices to adopt? This article explains:

  • Brute force types and methods : they vary according to the hackers’ method, the intrusion level and the application domain.
  • Brute force on electronic components : physical or electrical techniques are used to target chips or boards.
  • Brute force on passwords, keys, URLs and hashes : software or network techniques are used to access websites, online accounts, encrypted files, etc.
  • Brute force on phone systems : code or key techniques are used to hack landlines, mobiles or VoIP services.
  • Protection from brute force on devices and domains : encryption, authentication, masking, verification or correction techniques can help you strengthen your security.
  • Resistance evaluation of products or services to brute force : a scoring model based on the attack type and severity can help you assess the risk.

Types and Methods of Brute-force Attacks

There are several types and methods of brute force attacks, depending on the hackers’ method, the level of intrusion, and the domain of application.

Hackers’ Method

Hackers can use different methods to perform brute force attacks, depending on the type of data they want to obtain or modify. Here are the most common ones:

  • Simple brute force attacks: hackers try to guess the password of a user without using software, based on personal information or common passwords. These attacks work against users who have weak and easy-to-guess passwords, such as “password”, “1234567890”, or “qwerty”.
  • Dictionary attacks: hackers use software that tries passwords from a predefined list of common words, such as those from a dictionary or a database. These attacks are faster than simple ones but less effective against complex and random passwords.
  • Hybrid brute force attacks: hackers combine the previous two methods by adding variations to the dictionary words, such as numbers, symbols, or capital letters. These attacks are more sophisticated and can crack more robust passwords but they take more time and resources.
  • Reverse brute force attacks: hackers target the username rather than the password, assuming that the password is easier to guess or obtain by other means. These attacks are useful to access accounts that use the same username on multiple sites or services.
  • Distributed brute force attacks: hackers use multiple computers or devices connected to the Internet to perform brute force attacks simultaneously on the same target. These attacks are more powerful and harder to detect because they distribute the load and avoid security measures such as attempt limits or IP blocks.
  • Non-invasive faster than brute force attacks: hackers exploit weaknesses in the design or implementation of a system to reduce the number of combinations to test to find a secret information. For example, they can use a technique called “side-channel cube attack” to break AES encryption in less than 10 minutes with a laptop.
  • Analogous attacks: hackers use methods similar to brute force attacks but that do not test all possible combinations. For example, they can use a technique called “binary search attack” to guess a PIN code in less than 20 tries by exploiting the system’s response (correct/incorrect).

Level of Intrusion

Brute force attacks can also be classified according to the level of intrusion they involve:

  • Invasive attacks: hackers access physically the system or device they want to hack, using for example a keyboard, a USB stick, or a cable. These attacks are more dangerous because they can bypass software or network protections but they require proximity with the target and a risk of being caught.
  • Non-invasive attacks: hackers do not need to access physically the system or device they want to hack; they do it remotely via Internet or wireless network. These attacks are more discreet and easier to perform but they can be blocked by firewalls, antivirus software or secure protocols.

Domain of Application

Hackers’ objectives and motivations determine the domains where they apply brute force attacks. Here are some examples:

  • The civil domain: Hackers use brute force attacks to access personal or professional accounts such as emails, social networks, online banks or cloud services. They can steal sensitive information, impersonate identities, extort money or harm the reputation of the victims.
  • The defense domain: Hackers compromise national or international security by targeting military, governmental or diplomatic systems with brute force attacks. They can spy, sabotage, destabilize or provoke conflicts between countries.
  • The ethical hacking domain: Hackers test the security of systems or devices with brute force attacks by putting themselves in the attackers’ shoes. They can identify and report flaws, improve protections or train users.
  • The research domain: Hackers advance science and technology by exploring the limits of systems or devices with brute force attacks. They can discover new possibilities, innovate or create new products.

Brute-force Attacks on Electronic Components

Brute force attacks are not limited to passwords or encryption keys. They can also target electronic components that store or process data such as chips or integrated circuit boards. These attacks aim to access encrypted or protected information that is in the hardware using physical or electrical techniques.

Invasive Attacks

Invasive attacks are attacks that require direct access to the hardware and that involve modifying or destroying it. These attacks are often used to reverse engineer or extract data from chips or smart cards. Here are some examples:

  • Decapsulation: this technique consists of removing the outer layer of protection of a chip to expose the silicon and the internal layers. This can be done mechanically or chemically for example with nitric acid.
  • Deprocessing: this technique consists of removing progressively the internal layers of a chip to access the transistors and the connections. This can be done with chemicals lasers or focused ion beams (FIB).
  • Removal of the passivation layer: this technique consists of removing the insulating layer that covers the surface of a chip to allow electrical contact with the bonding wires (the thin connections between the chip and the package).
  • Reverse engineering: this technique consists of analyzing the structure and the functioning of a chip or an integrated circuit board to extract the source code the algorithms or the vulnerabilities.
  • Micro-probing: this technique consists of using micro-probes (metal needles) to connect directly to the internal components of a chip or an integrated circuit board and interfere with the signals or extract data.
  • Instantaneous memory attack: this technique consists of freezing a chip or an integrated circuit board to preserve the data that is in the volatile memory (RAM) after cutting off the power supply. This technique allows bypassing the mechanisms of automatic erasure of sensitive data in case of intrusion attempt.
  • Securing pairing algorithms against physical attacks: this technique consists of protecting pairing algorithms which are used for identity-based encryption against physical attacks that aim to modify the behavior of the hardware. This technique uses mathematical methods to detect and correct errors induced by physical disturbances.

Non-invasive Attacks

Non-invasive attacks are attacks that do not need direct access to the hardware but that use auxiliary or hidden channels to obtain or modify data on chips or integrated circuit boards. These attacks exploit the physical characteristics of the hardware such as power consumption electromagnetic field acoustic noise or temperature. Here are some examples:

  • Side-channel attack: this technique consists of measuring a physical parameter related to the functioning of a chip or an integrated circuit board to deduce information about the operations it performs or the data it processes. For example it is possible to guess an encryption key by analyzing the power consumption of a chip while it encrypts or decrypts a message.
  • Fault injection attack: this technique consists of provoking an error in the functioning of a chip or an integrated circuit board by sending it an abnormal signal such as an electric pulse a light wave or ionizing radiation. This technique allows modifying the behavior of the hardware revealing hidden information or bypassing protections.
  • Software flaw attack: this technique consists of exploiting a vulnerability in the software that controls the functioning of a chip or an integrated circuit board to access or modify sensitive data. For example it is possible to take control of a router by using a flaw in its firmware (the internal software that controls the functioning of the hardware).
  • Hidden channel attack: this technique consists of exploiting information that is not directly related to the functioning of the targeted system such as noise temperature or time. For example it is possible to guess the PIN code of a phone by listening to the sound produced by the keys when entering it.

Brute-force Attacks on Passwords Encryption Keys Hidden URLs and Hashes

Passwords encryption keys hidden URLs and hashes are data that serve to protect access or confidentiality of information on Internet. Hackers can try to guess them using brute force attacks which consist in testing all possible combinations until they find the right one. These attacks can have serious consequences such as identity theft account hijacking message decryption or website hacking.

Attacks on Passwords

Passwords are secret codes that users enter to authenticate on a website or an online service. Hackers can try to guess them using brute force attacks simple dictionary hybrid reverse or distributed as we have seen previously. These attacks can allow hackers to access users’ accounts and steal their personal financial or

professional information. To protect themselves from these attacks, users should choose strong and unique passwords, use a password manager, enable two-factor authentication, and avoid phishing emails.

Attacks on Encryption Keys

Encryption keys are data that are used to encrypt or decrypt messages or files. They can be symmetric (the same key is used for encryption and decryption) or asymmetric (two different keys are used: a public key for encryption and a private key for decryption). Hackers can try to guess them using brute force attacks simple or distributed, by testing all possible combinations until they find the right one. These attacks can allow hackers to read or modify confidential messages or files.

To protect themselves from these attacks, users should choose long and random encryption keys, use secure encryption algorithms, do not disclose or store their encryption keys in insecure places, and use secure protocols to exchange their encryption keys with their correspondents, such as the Diffie-Hellman protocol or the SSL/TLS protocol.

Another type of brute force attack targets the data stored in the volatile memory of devices, such as computers and phones. Volatile memory is a type of memory that loses its content when the power supply is cut off. This makes it vulnerable to brute force attacks that aim to extract sensitive data from it, using physical or software techniques. In this section, we will explain what are brute force attacks on volatile memory, how they work, what are the risks and how to prevent them.

Tools for brute force attacks

There are many tools available for brute force attacks on different protocols or services. Some are used for malicious purposes, others for penetration testing or security audit. Here is a non-exhaustive list of tools for brute force attacks:

  • Hashcat: Hashcat claims to be the world’s fastest and most advanced password recovery tool based on CPU. It supports five unique modes of attack for over 300 optimized hashing algorithms.
  • Flipper Zero: a multifunctional device that allows you to perform brute force attacks on RFID, NFC, Bluetooth systems, etc.
  • Gobuster: a tool written in Go that allows you to perform brute force attacks on web directories, DNS subdomains, S3 buckets or virtual hosts.
  • BruteX: a shell-based tool that allows you to perform brute force attacks on different services such as FTP, SSH, Telnet, RDP, VNC, etc.
  • Dirsearch: a tool written in Python that allows you to perform brute force attacks on web directories and files.
  • Callow: a tool written in C# that allows you to perform brute force attacks on web forms.
  • SSB: a tool written in Perl that allows you to perform brute force attacks on SMTP servers.
  • THC-Hydra: a popular tool that allows you to perform brute force attacks on more than 50 protocols such as HTTP, HTTPS, FTP, SSH, Telnet, SMB, etc.
  • Burp Suite: a suite of tools that allows you to perform penetration testing on web applications, including brute force attacks on web forms or HTTP parameters.
  • Patator: a tool written in Python that allows you to perform modular brute force attacks on different services such as HTTP, FTP, SSH, SMTP, etc.
  • Pydictor: a tool written in Python that allows you to generate custom lists for brute force or dictionary attacks.
  • Ncrack: a tool that allows you to perform fast and flexible brute force attacks on different services such as RDP, SSH, Telnet, HTTP(S), POP3(S), etc.

Brute force attacks on volatile memory: a data security risk

Volatile memory is a type of memory that loses its content when the power supply is cut off. This is the case for the random access memory (RAM) of computers and phones, which temporarily stores data and programs that are running. Volatile memory has an advantage: it erases the traces of computer activity in case of power outage or system shutdown. But it also has a drawback: it can be targeted by brute force attacks aiming to recover the sensitive data it contains.

A brute force attack is a method that consists of testing all possible combinations of a password, an encryption key or an access code, until finding the right one. Brute force attacks can be performed using specialized software, which exploits the computing power of computers or networks of machines. Brute force attacks can take a lot of time, depending on the complexity and length of the password, key or code to guess.

Brute force attacks on volatile memory are attacks that aim to extract data stored in the RAM of a computer or a phone, using physical or software techniques. For example, it is possible to cool down the RAM with liquid nitrogen, which allows to preserve its content for a few minutes after the system shutdown. It is then possible to transfer the RAM to another device, and use a brute force software to decrypt the data it contains. It is also possible to use malicious software that infiltrates the system and accesses the RAM, bypassing software or hardware protections.

Brute force attacks on volatile memory pose a risk for data security, because they can allow hackers to access confidential information, such as passwords, encryption keys, personal or professional data, etc. These information can then be used to compromise other systems or services, or to extort the victims. To protect against these attacks, it is recommended to use passwords or keys that are long and complex enough, to encrypt data stored in the RAM, and to update software and hardware to benefit from the latest security measures.

To sum up, brute force attacks on volatile memory are a serious threat for data security, as they can allow hackers to access confidential information, such as passwords, encryption keys, personal or professional data, etc. These information can then be used to compromise other systems or services, or to extort the victims. To protect against these attacks, it is recommended to use passwords or keys that are long and complex enough, to encrypt data stored in the RAM, and to update software and hardware to benefit from the latest security measures.

Attacks on Hidden URLs

Hidden URLs are web addresses that are hidden or modified to avoid being easily accessible or identifiable. They can be used to protect the privacy or security of a website or an online service. For example, a website may use a hidden URL to prevent being indexed by search engines or targeted by hackers. Hackers can try to guess them using brute force attacks simple or distributed, by testing all possible combinations until they find the right one. These attacks can allow hackers to access hidden or forbidden websites, such as illegal, malicious, or sensitive websites.

To protect themselves from these attacks, users should choose long, complex, and random hidden URLs, do not use predictable or easy-to-guess hidden URLs, do not share or publish their hidden URLs with other people or on other websites, and use encryption or authentication techniques to enhance the security of their hidden URLs.

Attacks on Hashes

Hashes are data that result from applying a mathematical function to a message or a file. They are used to verify the integrity or authenticity of a message or a file, by comparing it to the original hash. They can also be used to store passwords securely, by transforming them into irreversible hashes. Hackers can try to guess them using brute force attacks simple, dictionary, or hybrid, by testing all possible combinations until they find the right hash. These attacks can allow hackers to falsify or reveal messages or files.

To protect themselves from these attacks, users should choose secure hashing functions that do not have collisions (two different messages that produce the same hash) or preimages (a message that produces a given hash), use salting (adding a random data to the message before hashing) or peppering (adding a secret data to the message before hashing) techniques to make hashes more resistant to brute force attacks, do not store or transmit their hashes in insecure places, and use secure protocols to exchange their hashes with their correspondents, such as the HMAC protocol or the SSL/TLS protocol.

Brute-force Attacks on Phone Systems

Phone systems are devices that allow communication by voice or text, such as landlines, mobile phones (smartphones), or VoIP services. Hackers can try to hack them using brute-force attacks that consist of guessing codes or keys. These attacks can allow hackers to access data or services of a phone system, such as contacts, messages, calls, payments, or subscriptions.

Attacks on PIN Codes

PIN codes are secret codes of four digits that are used to unlock a mobile phone or a SIM card. Hackers can try to guess them using brute force attacks simple or analogous by testing all possible combinations until they find the right one. These attacks can allow hackers to access data or services of the mobile phone or the SIM card.

To protect themselves from these attacks users should choose random and unpredictable PIN codes that do not contain numerical sequences easy to guess such as “0000” “1234” or “4321”. They should not write or share their PIN codes with other people. They should activate the function of automatic locking of the mobile phone or the SIM card after a certain number of unsuccessful attempts. They should activate the function of automatic reset of the mobile phone or the SIM card after a certain number of unsuccessful attempts.

Attacks on IMEI Codes

IMEI codes are unique codes of 15 digits that identify a mobile phone. They are used to block a mobile phone in case of theft or loss. Hackers can try to guess them using brute force attacks simple or distributed by testing all possible combinations until they find the right one. These attacks can allow hackers to unlock a stolen or lost mobile phone and use it for malicious purposes such as making fraudulent calls sending unwanted messages or accessing personal data of the owner.

To protect themselves from these attacks users should note their IMEI codes and keep them in a safe place. They should not disclose their IMEI codes to unknown or suspicious people. They should report the loss or theft of their mobile phone to their operator and request the blocking of their IMEI codes. They should use a service of location or remote locking of their mobile phone in case of loss or theft.

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Evaluation of Products or Services Resistance to Brute-force Attacks

To evaluate the resistance of products or services to brute force attacks we can use a scoring model based on the type and severity of possible attacks. The scoring model can be as follows:

  • For each product or service we identify the possible types of brute force attacks that can target it such as passwords encryption keys hidden URLs hashes PIN codes or IMEI codes.
  • For each type of brute force attack we assign a score from 1 to 5 according to the severity of the attack. The score can be based on the following criteria: the complexity of the attack the time required to perform the attack the impact of the attack on the confidentiality integrity or availability of the data or service and the likelihood of the attack to succeed.
  • We calculate the average score for each product or service by adding up the scores for each type of brute force attack and dividing by the number of types. The lower the score the more resistant the product or service is to brute force attacks.

For example let’s consider two products: a web application and a smartphone. The possible types of brute force attacks and their scores are as follows:

Type of brute-force attack Web application Smartphone
Passwords 3 2
Encryption keys 4 3
Hidden URLs 2 N/A
Hashes 3 N/A
PIN codes N/A 2
IMEI codes N/A 4

The average score for the web application is (3 + 4 + 2 + 3) / 4 = 3. The average score for the smartphone is (2 + 3 + 2 + 4) / 4 = 2.75. Therefore, according to this scoring model, the smartphone is more resistant to brute force attacks than the web application.

Statistics on brute force attacks

Brute force attacks are common and effective methods used by hackers to access systems protected by passwords or encryption keys. According to the IBM Cost of a Data Breach 2022 report, stolen or compromised credentials are the leading cause of data breaches and cost an average of $4.35 million to businesses worldwide in 2021. Brute force attacks are also increasing with the health crisis, which has encouraged remote work and online services. According to Cloudflare, the number of brute force attacks on RDP and SSH protocols increased by 400% between March and April 2020.

The duration and difficulty of a brute force attack depend on the length and complexity of the password or key to guess. According to Cloudflare, a seven-character password would take, at a rate of 15 million keystrokes per second, 9 minutes to crack. An eight-character password would take 4 hours, a nine-character password would take 8 days, and a ten-character password would take 463 days. It is therefore essential to use passwords or keys that are long and random enough to resist brute force attacks.

Real Cases of Brute-force Attacks

Brute force attacks are not only theoretical methods, but also real threats that have affected various domains, such as finance, health, politics, etc. In this section, we will present some examples of brute force attacks that have taken place in recent years, and show their consequences and lessons.

Brute force attacks on financial institutions

Financial institutions are often targeted by brute force attacks, as they store sensitive data and money. For instance, in 2019, a group of hackers used brute force attacks to access the online banking systems of several banks in Eastern Europe and Central Asia. They stole over $100 million from more than 40,000 accounts. The hackers used a software called Cobalt Strike, which allowed them to remotely control the infected computers and launch brute force attacks on the banks’ servers. They also used a technique called “ATM cash-out”, which enabled them to withdraw money from ATMs without using cards.

This case shows the importance of using strong passwords and encryption keys for online banking systems, as well as updating the software and hardware to prevent malware infections. It also shows the need for monitoring and alerting mechanisms to detect and stop brute force attacks in real time.

Brute force attacks on health systems

Health systems are also vulnerable to brute force attacks, as they store personal and medical data that can be used for identity theft or blackmail. For example, in 2020, a hacker group called Maze used brute force attacks to breach the network of Fresenius, Europe’s largest private hospital operator. They encrypted the data and demanded a ransom for its release. The attack affected the hospital’s operations and patient care, as well as its subsidiaries that produce dialysis products and blood transfusion devices.

This case illustrates the impact of brute force attacks on human lives and health services. It also highlights the need for securing the network and data of health systems, as well as having backup and recovery plans in case of an attack.

Brute force attacks on political systems

Political systems are not immune to brute force attacks, as they can influence the outcome of elections or policies. For instance, in 2016, a hacker group called Fancy Bear used brute force attacks to access the email accounts of several members of the Democratic National Committee (DNC) in the United States. They leaked the emails to WikiLeaks, which published them online. The leaked emails revealed internal conflicts and controversies within the DNC, and damaged the reputation of Hillary Clinton, who was running for president against Donald Trump.

This case demonstrates the power of brute force attacks to manipulate public opinion and interfere with democratic processes. It also underscores the need for protecting the email accounts and communications of political actors, as well as educating the public about cyber threats and misinformation.

How to Prevent Brute-force Attacks

Brute force attacks are a serious threat to the security and privacy of users, systems, and devices. Therefore, it is important to take preventive measures to avoid or mitigate their impact. Here are some general tips to prevent brute force attacks:

  • Use strong and unique passwords, encryption keys, hidden URLs, hashes, PIN codes, and IMEI codes. They should be long, complex, and random, containing letters, numbers, and symbols. They should not be based on personal or predictable information, such as names, dates, or phone numbers.
  • Use secure encryption algorithms and hashing functions. They should not have known or exploitable flaws or weaknesses, such as collisions or preimages. They should have enough entropy (degree of unpredictability) to resist brute force attacks.
  • Use secure protocols and techniques to exchange and store data. They should provide encryption, authentication, verification, correction, masking, or salting features. They should use secure channels and devices to transmit and store data.
  • Use security software and hardware to protect systems and devices. They should include firewalls, antivirus software, sensors, or locks. They should detect and block brute force attacks or trigger self-destruction or data erasure mechanisms.
  • Use ethical hacking and research to test and improve the security of systems and devices. They should identify and report vulnerabilities, flaws, or weaknesses. They should provide solutions, innovations, or products to enhance the security of systems and devices.

In conclusion

In this article, we have explored the topic of brute force attacks, also known as trial-and-error or exhaustive attacks. We have seen that brute force attacks are methods used by hackers to access systems protected by passwords or encryption keys, by testing all possible combinations until finding the right one. We have also seen that there are different types and methods of brute force attacks, depending on the hackers’ method, the level of intrusion, the domain of application and the tools used. We have focused on some specific types of brute force attacks, such as those on electronic components, passwords, encryption keys, hidden URLs, hashes and phone systems. We have also evaluated the resistance of products or services to brute force attacks, by presenting some real cases and some criteria to assess the security level. Finally, we have given some tips on how to prevent brute force attacks, by using long and complex passwords or keys, encrypting data, updating software and hardware, and using security tools.

Brute force attacks are a serious threat for data security and privacy, as they can allow hackers to access confidential information, compromise other systems or services, or extort the victims. Therefore, it is essential to be aware of the risks and the solutions to protect yourself from brute force attacks. If you want to learn more about this topic, you can check the sources that we have cited throughout this article.

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