Tarun Karthick
Port Blair, 04 March 2024
A concerning trend has emerged in the realm of cybercrime, as fraudsters are now leveraging heat signatures left by fingertips on keyboards and screens to crack passwords and PINs. This sophisticated attack technique combines thermal imaging technology with Artificial Intelligence (AI) algorithms to decipher passwords based on the thermal residue left behind by users.
The method involves capturing thermal images of keypads or screens while users input their passwords or PINs. Through AI analysis, the heat signatures are correlated with specific keys pressed, allowing fraudsters to deduce the entered codes. Essentially, the brighter areas on the thermal image indicate recent touches, aiding in the accurate prediction of passwords.
In response to this growing threat, the Andaman and Nicobar Police have issued an advisory to help individuals safeguard themselves against such attacks:
1. Exercise Caution at ATMs: Avoid using ATMs that lack proper surveillance and security measures. Always ensure that ATM rooms are equipped with surveillance cameras.
2. Be Vigilant for Suspicious Attachments: Regularly inspect ATMs for any unusual attachments on the machine or within the ATM room. Additionally, cover the keypad area while entering your PIN to prevent thermal signature detection.
3. Generate Random Heat Signatures: To disrupt potential heat signature analysis, press multiple random number keys on the keypad before leaving the ATM, POS machine, or any other device with a keypad lock.
4. Monitor Banking Transactions: Stay vigilant by thoroughly reviewing SMS and email notifications from your bank regarding any transactions. If any suspicious activity is detected, promptly contact your bank for assistance.
For assistance, information, or inquiries related to cybercrime, individuals can reach out to the Cyber Crime Police Station in A&N Islands via the National Helpline No. 1930 or the A&N Police Helpline No. 9531856083. Alternatively, they can visit cybercrime.gov.in for additional resources and support.