"BadPower: Fast Chargers Can Be Modified to Damage Mobile Devices"

Security researchers from Tencent's Xuanwu Lab demonstrated an attack, called "BadPower," in which fast charger devices' firmware is altered to damage connected (charging) devices, such as phones, tablets, and laptops. The attack could overwhelm digital devices to the point where they would catch fire. The researchers selected 35 of the 234 fast charger models currently available on the market. They found that at least 18 models from 8 different vendors are vulnerable to BadPower attacks. Manufacturers are advised to ensure that fast chargers' firmware can't be modified without authorization. End users are encouraged not to share their fast charger and power bank with others. They should also avoid using fast chargers belonging to other people or chargers made available at coffee shops, airports, and other establishments. This article continues to discuss how BadPower attacks are possible and potential solutions for protecting devices from these attacks.

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