Video: Researchers Use a Physical Device to Take Over Electronics in a Boeing 737
Technology & EngineeringComputer science researchers developed and tested a device that, if plugged into a hardwired communications channel connecting two key flight computers, can take over communications between these computers. The proof-of-concept attack suggests that physical access to an aircraft’s computer bay under the nose of the plane is a cybersecurity risk that should be considered. The device needs to be plugged into a port inside the plane’s belly – an action that the researchers estimate would take under 60 seconds. This would require access to the aircraft either when parked at a gate or when in an airport hangar during regular maintenance. Access to these areas is controlled carefully but not always successfully. The researchers successfully demonstrated the attack on a testbed made of actual Boeing 737 airplane parts and airplane software.
