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2016: Scientists have learned how to hack computers using the sounds of pressing the keyboard through Skype

In October 2016, scientists from the University of California at Berkeley published a study showing that attackers can eavesdrop keypads using the Skype messenger. Russian experts believe that the problem is also relevant for other services, including those used by corporate customers.

Researchers from the University of California concluded that, knowing exactly the keyboard model and user's manner of printing, it is possible with a high degree of probability (about 92%) by the sound of keystrokes to set which keys the user presses.

Scientists from the University of California at Berkeley published a study that showed that attackers can eavesdrop keystrokes using Skype.

Scientists analyzed printing sounds during Skype communication sessions using microphones, accelerometers and other sensors in mobile devices. The collected acoustic data were analyzed using artificial intelligence technologies. In the end, specialists managed to get a reconstruction of user data. Thus, attackers can hack into a computer by communicating with the victim via Skype.^[1]

Today, there are many means of voice communication over the Internet. However, researchers at the University of California have been successful using a specific Skype app. Probably we should expect such attacks through other applications, "said George Lagoda, technical director of Security Monitor (specializing in consulting in the field of information security), to TAdviser.

According to him, if scientists publish their source codes or final applications for analyzing the audio stream, then there may be a direct threat to corporate users. In addition, in today's tense political situation, there is a high risk that this attack can be used by certain special services in the interests of foreign intelligence, the expert believes.

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