There is a group of researchers whose only goal is to try to steal data with movie-like technologies. Most of them consist of converting a normal device or component into a device that can send or receive wireless signals. In the past, they were able to get data from fans and LEDs and even change the brightness on screens and use security cameras. Now, they have managed to convert the RAM module to a WiFi card.
The last one they created was christened as AIR-FI. This technology is based on the fact that any electronic component generates an electromagnetic wave as an electric current passes through it. Since WiFi is radio frequency signals, researchers have tried to manipulate the current that circulates inside the RAM modules in a way that generates electromagnetic waves at the 2.4GHz frequency at which WiFi channels operate. In fact, most DDR4 RAM modules can operate at 2400MHz, as this is the most common default frequency. In the tests, they used Crucial and SK Hynix DDR4 RAM modules, as well as other Dr. The processors used, were three: Intel Core i7-6900K, Intel Core i5-5820K, and Intel Core i7-4790.
With this, they were able to make the computer's RAM emit read and write operations similar to that of a low-power WiFi signal. This signal can be captured by a nearby WiFi antenna, such as a mobile phone, laptop, security camera, and even smartwatch.
In the demonstration, the researchers were able to output signals at a rate of 100 bps, or 12.5 bytes per second, with two computers in close proximity to each other; One with WiFi and one without. In the next video, we can see how it works.
The researchers claim that this attack is one of the easiest attacks, as the attacker does not need to have administrator or root permissions to perform the exploit. AIR-FI can be started from any account with user privileges, the ability to use it on any operating system, and even within a virtual machine.
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