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AI Turns Internet Cables into Covert Spying Tools
13 May
Summary
- Fiber optic cables can now act as listening devices through DAS technology.
- AI enables reconstruction of nearby conversations and sounds from cable vibrations.
- While current risks are low, future AI advancements pose a growing concern.
New research indicates that the fiber optic cables powering internet connections can be exploited as covert listening devices. This previously low-risk method of spying has become a higher concern due to advancements in artificial intelligence. The technique leverages Distributed Acoustic Sensing (DAS) technology, which transforms fiber optic cables into numerous vibration sensors.
DAS operates by transmitting laser pulses and analyzing subtle shifts in reflected light caused by sound waves. These vibrations create minor deformations in the glass fiber, detectable through changes in light patterns. Researchers have demonstrated that with AI assistance, nearby conversations, typing, and other sounds can be reconstructed from these signals, particularly on Fibre-to-the-Home (FTTH) and enterprise connections.
While the current real-world threat is considered low due to factors like background noise and signal degradation, the growing sophistication of AI presents a future security risk. The technology, however, also has beneficial applications, such as detecting underground water leaks and monitoring pipelines, highlighting its dual nature.
