Can Security Detectors Be Hacked?

Presented at HOPE Number Six (2006), July 23, 2006, 11 a.m. (60 minutes)

Today we are challenged by a multitude of security detectors. But can they be beaten? This talk will deal with their vulnerabilities. The electromagnetic spectrum will be explained along with how waves propagate. Security systems like X-ray backscatter and mm wavelength microwave will be discussed along with possible defenses. Most of the talk will focus on the ubiquitous metal detector - the walk-through and handheld variety.

The question of whether radio frequency devices can compromise security will be explored. Front door and back door attacks (coupling modes) will be defined. The urban myth of radio frequency devices/weapons will be discussed. It will all top off with a discussion of Carl Jung and King Hubbert and how they relate to terrorism.

This talk is dedicated to Paul's cousin Tommy Farino, a New York Fire Department captain who died on 9/11.


Presenters:

  • Paul Renda
    Paul Renda started his career working on the IBM 360 and the PDP-11. He was an early advocate of using hacking software to check corporate data systems and has presented talks at the Computer Security Institute. Paul's articles have appeared in the Info Security magazine. He is currently a computer security analyst.

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