Corsair Flash Padlock Not So Secure... (The Dutch Said it)

March 26th, 2008

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While we were digging for some information earlier, we came across some information that we felt everyone should be aware of. Apparently the Corsair Flash Padlock isn't very secure at all. Tweakblogs (warning: Dutch) has a quick guide of how to hack the Padlock. Unfortunately is so simple that all you need to do is solder in a single resistor and the drive will be permanently unlocked. Yes, this means that your PIN no longer protects you and that anyone with a few bucks and a soldering iron can get your data off of it.

Please keep in mind that while this means that the drive isn't that secure, it is still better than nothing. This drive is simply meant to stop the masses from grabbing the drive and being able to plug it in and use it. The average guy next door isn't going to know to solder on a resistor, let alone where, but it is something to take note of.

Always remember two very important facts about technology. 1) If it can be hacked, it will be hacked… and even if it can't be hacked today, someone will be able to eventually. 2) Encryption is a MUST to protect your data whether it is hardware or software encryption. While hardware is generally better than software, software encryption is going to be much stronger than any password or PIN you can create.

Filed under USB Flash Drives

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