Wireless charging has become a staple of modern convenience, but a recent research project called VoltSchemer unveils a chilling truth: these chargers might be more vulnerable than we think.

Developed by researchers at the University of Florida and CertiK, VoltSchemer exposes a series of attacks that exploit weaknesses in popular wireless chargers, potentially turning them into threats to your devices and even your privacy.

How Does it Work?

VoltSchemer doesn’t require hacking the charger itself. Instead, it targets the power supply, manipulating the voltage coming from the wall outlet. By introducing subtle changes in voltage, attackers can gain control over the charger’s behavior, leading to three main attack vectors:

1. Overheating and Damage: The attacker manipulates the voltage supplied to the charger. This can force the charger to deliver excessive power, which can cause devices like your phone to overheat and potentially suffer permanent damage. This is particularly concerning if you leave your device on the charger for extended periods, such as overnight.
2. Power Toasting: This attack bypasses the Qi standard’s safety mechanisms. The Qi standard is a commonly used standard for wireless charging. By bypassing its safety mechanisms, attackers can heat up objects placed near the charging pad. This could include items like credit cards, passports, or important documents, all of which are vulnerable to “power toasting” and potential data loss.
3. Voice Assistant Hijacking: In this scenario, VoltSchemer manipulates the voltage to create inaudible sound waves that can trigger voice assistants like Siri or Google Assistant. This could allow someone to remotely issue malicious commands to your phone through its own charger.

What’s the Risk?

The research tested nine different wireless chargers, and all were found vulnerable. This highlights the widespread potential for these attacks. While the technical hurdles might seem challenging for casual attackers, the research itself serves as a wake-up call for manufacturers and security professionals.

The risks associated with the vulnerabilities exposed by VoltSchemer are significant and multifaceted:

1. Device Damage: The overheating and damage attack can cause your devices to overheat and potentially suffer permanent damage. This could result in the loss of the device itself and any data stored on it.
2. Data Loss: The power toasting attack can heat up objects placed near the charging pad, such as credit cards, passports, or important documents. This could lead to the loss or corruption of the data stored on these items.
3. Privacy Breach: The voice assistant hijacking attack can trigger voice assistants like Siri or Google Assistant to execute commands without your knowledge. This could lead to privacy breaches and unauthorized access to your personal information.
4. Financial Impact: The damage to devices and loss of data could have financial implications, including the cost of replacing damaged devices or recovering lost data.
5. Trust in Technology: These attacks could undermine trust in wireless charging technology and broader technological systems, potentially slowing adoption and innovation.

Staying Safe:

While there’s no immediate need to ditch your wireless charger, here are some precautions you can take

• Awareness: Stay informed about the latest research and developments in wireless charging technology. Awareness of potential vulnerabilities can help you take proactive steps to protect your devices.
• Use Trusted Brands: Purchase wireless chargers from reputable manufacturers that adhere to the Qi standard and other safety regulations. These companies are more likely to implement safety features and updates to address potential vulnerabilities.
• Regular Updates: Keep your devices and chargers updated with the latest firmware. Updates often include patches for known vulnerabilities.
• Noise Suppression Components: Researchers recommended integrating noise suppression components like extra DC/DC converters, which is practical. Testing on a Renesas P9242 charger shows significant noise reduction across frequencies, with a minimum of 15 dB.
• Physical Security: Be mindful of where you charge your devices. Avoid charging in public places where attackers might have access to the power supply.
• Voice Assistant Settings: Consider disabling voice assistants when not in use, or adjust settings to limit their capabilities when your device is locked.
• Avoid suspicious charging stations: Be wary of public charging stations, especially those that look outdated or poorly maintained.
• Stay informed: Keep an eye on news and updates about potential vulnerabilities in wireless chargers.
• Consider alternatives: If security is a major concern, explore wired charging options for sensitive devices.

The Road Ahead:

The VoltSchemer research serves as a crucial reminder that convenience shouldn’t come at the cost of security. Manufacturers need to prioritize robust security measures in their wireless chargers, and users need to be aware of the potential risks. By working together, we can ensure that wireless charging remains a safe and convenient technology for everyone.

The future of wireless charging technology looks promising, with several advancements on the horizon:

1. Wireless Charging for Electric Vehicles (EVs): Efforts towards realizing wireless charging for EVs are making significant strides. This technology would allow plug-in cars to charge without cords, using magnetic resonance and a charging pad. However, challenges include slow charging speeds and lack of infrastructure.
2. Standardization and Infrastructure Development: Companies are coalescing around standardized technology, automakers are embarking on wireless experiments, and municipalities are mapping out use cases. This coordinated effort is crucial for the widespread adoption of wireless charging.
3. Increased Interest from Major Automakers: Major automakers like Tesla are showing interest in wireless charging. Their involvement could accelerate the development and adoption of this technology.
4. Technological Breakthroughs: There are several breakthroughs enabling this emerging technology to transform the way consumers and industries wirelessly charge and power electronic devices at home, in the office, in the car, and beyond.

These attacks highlight the importance of robust security measures in all aspects of technology, even in areas that might initially seem safe or innocuous, like wireless charging. It’s a reminder that as our reliance on technology grows, so too does the need for comprehensive and proactive security solutions.

At Maagsoft Inc, we are your trusted partner in the ever-evolving realms of cybersecurity, AI innovation, and cloud engineering. Our mission is to empower individuals and organizations with cutting-edge services, training, and AI-driven solutions. Contact us at contact@maagsoft.com to embark on a journey towards fortified digital resilience and technological excellence.