Beware of the Potential Dangers of Cheap USB-C Cables

The price of these USB-C cables often depends on the length, manufacturing quality, compliance with USB-C standards, and brand. While USB-C is considered the most versatile connection for digital devices, the complexity of the standard can be confusing for users.

Many dangers can lurk in uncertified USB-C cables

The goal of USB-C is to simplify the use of cables for data, audio, video and power supply. However, not all cables have the same specifications, and packaging is often unclear about their capabilities. In particular, some USB-C cables may contain malicious circuitry that compromises the security of your device.

Inside Those Seemingly Innocuous USB-C Cables

While they may look similar on the outside, some USB-C cables are much more complex on the inside. For example, Apple’s $4 USB-C Thunderbolt 129 cable is more complex than the $11,69 Amazon Basics cable.

Security research firm Lumafield recently discovered that O.MG USB-C cables, a product designed for security research purposes, may contain malicious hardware that users cannot detect. Lumafield researcher John Bruner said that O.MG cables have a clever design that makes it easier to bypass standard testing methods, making it harder to detect hidden circuits. They may contain hardware that can record personal data or install malware on users' devices.

Bruner stressed that CT scanning is becoming an important tool in verifying the integrity of hardware during manufacturing to prevent potentially catastrophic supply chain attacks. Consumers are advised to use certified USB-C cables and avoid using public USB charging ports when possible.