A hacker has converted legit Apple chargers into computer hacking tools, dubbed O.MG Cable, according to an article by Joseph Cox at Vice.
The security researcher known as MG unveiled altered the Apple charging cables – which include a malware implant – at the Def Con hacking convention held in Las Vegas. They are currently selling for $200 each.
“It looks like a legitimate cable and works just like one,” said MG. “Not even your computer will notice a difference […] until I, as an attacker, wirelessly take control of the cable.”
The creator of the altered device advises those who purchase the O.MG Cable to swap a real one for its sinister version (or even give the O.MG Cable as a gift to a target). The cable comes with commands and scripts that a user can run on a target’s computer.
A user can also remotely “kill” the USB data in order to hide evidence of its malicious intent.
In order to make these devices from scratch, the company Hak5 has been drafted to produce new cables, according to MG. The security researcher hopes to eventually turn the O.MG Cable into a legit security tool.
“Apple cables are simply the most difficult to do this to,” he said. “So if I can successfully implant one of these, then I can usually do it to other cables.”
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