Heart can be monitored and regulated using the pacemaker but had got the researchers wondering how one might turn off the device via remote control. The lack of a cryptographic key in the device only invites hackers and they have not been known for great security. The team used a cheap system to mimic the mechanism which included a software radio, GNU radio software, and other electronics. With this, a person could eavesdrop on private data such as the identity of the patient, the doctor, the diagnosis, and of course, the pacemaker instructions. This means, the millions of people with a pacemaker directing their hearts to beat stand the chance of being hacked and their hearts being stopped from working. Apparently, you can induce the test mode, drain the device battery and turn off the pacemaker. Meanwhile, zero-power notification have resulted in the radio frequency energy to wirelessly power a device and audibly alert a patient if the pacemaker’s security is in danger. Zero-power authentication also allows the patient to authenticate requests for remote accesses. Both tactile and audible feedback could be used to alert the patient of such security threats.
Via: TechnoVelgy
